1,950 Farmers Tested Whether Washington Could Grow Its Own Sugar

Editor: I enclose herewith the results of the series of tests of the adaptability of our soil and climate for the production of sugar beets. You are aware that the production of beet sugar has made remarkable progress in this country, and that the Pacific coast has a much higher percentage of saccharine matter than the factories farther east. The Pacific coast factories are in California, but it is plain that the Pacific slope farther north ought thoroughly to ascertain its possibilities. Our extensive tests are gratifying in purity and percentage; the results are astonishing. It must be remembered that the beets were cultivated by persons in different parts of the state without previous knowledge or skill in beet culture, that the season was unfavorable, and that the samples were taken by persons who could not know what type of beet would yield the best. The results are therefore likely to be below rather than above the average under the best system of culture. With manufacturing beets that require not over 12 per cent sugar, the evidence of adaptability of our soil and climate should command not merely state but national attention. — E. A. Bryan, President.

The chemical department of the experiment station began a series of tests on the adaptability of Washington soil and climate to sugar beets suitable for manufacturing. Farmers were invited to apply and follow specified directions for cultivation. The number of applications was much greater than anticipated, and seed was furnished to 1,950 different parties. The report tabulated analyses from dozens of towns east and west of the Cascades. The statewide average showed beets weighing about 22 ounces, with 15.1 per cent sugar and purity in the low 80s—a commendable showing, especially as regards purity. The results seemed to demonstrate beyond doubt that Washington is pre-eminently adapted to the culture of beets for sugar making. Further experiments will be carried on next year with special reference to yield per acre and cost of production. Seed will again be distributed free of charge to those who apply, and applications should be made not later than March 1. In the meantime let every one interested in the material development of our state keep the sugar beet question thoroughly agitated; let sectional feeling give way to the general welfare. It will not be many years before all the sugar consumed in our state will be manufactured within her borders.