Successful organic sugar beet campaign despite logistical hurdles

Successful organic sugar beet campaign despite logistical hurdles

The organic sugar beet campaign in the Straubing-Schierling region has proven to be a remarkable success, despite some unexpected difficulties that arose during the process. A total of an impressive 18,000 tons of organic sugar beet were loaded, although almost all of the loading had to be relocated to Eggmühl due to problems at the Straubing train station.

Originally, loading was planned in Straubing and Schierling, with 8,000 tons in Straubing and 10,000 tons in Schierling. However, technical difficulties meant that only 2,000 tons could be loaded in Straubing. The remaining 16,000 tons were successfully put on rail in Eggmühl.

Logistical challenges and solutions

A freight car can carry up to 48 tons of organic sugar beets, and a fully loaded train brings almost 1,600 tons. The entire campaign required 375 wagons, which were distributed across 11 freight trains. This rail loading helped avoid 720 truck trips, as one truck can only transport 25 tons.

Despite the challenges caused by route closures in several places, the loading area in Eggmühl was provided by the municipality of Schierling and the Kammermeier warehouse. This enabled the loading to be carried out smoothly. The Schierling-Langquaid local railway supported the train staff with valuable local knowledge, which further facilitated the processes.

The last freight train, loaded with sugar beets from organic farmer Aumeier and other farmers in the area, will begin its journey to Switzerland next night. There, the organic quality beets are processed into white sugar and preserving sugar, which are available in organic stores under the “Landmacher” brand. The campaign officially ends with the loading of the last train.