The World Association of Beet and Cane Growers elected a local farmer its president Thursday.

Bill Hejl, 49, a sugar beet farmer from Amenia, N.D., will lead the international association for three years.

"It's a thrill of a lifetime to represent the United States of America and the interests of beet and cane growers around the world," Hejl said.

Hejl was elected during the association's five-day conference, which ends today, in Fargo.

It's the first time a U.S. farmer has been elected the association's president. It's also the first time the conference has been held in the United States.

The World Association of Beet and Cane Growers represents sugar producers from 29 countries, including Japan, the United States, Brazil and the European Union.

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