South Dakota farmers could likely be harvesting a record sunflower crop this year. That’s according to National Sunflower Association Director John Sandbakken. He says that may happen if USDA estimates hold up.
He says the ag department says nationally, U.S. sunflower production is expected to be up 31 percent from last year.
Sandbakken says if those estimates come to pass, then he expects more sunflower acres to be planted next spring.
He is also excited about the possible for more marketing opportunities for U.S. sunflowers with the recent passage of the Trans Pacific Partnership, particularly with Japan and Canada.
Sandbakken says harvest is rolling along following a busy weekend. He says that should raise the amount harvested from last week’s 7 percent pace.