Thanks to the work of the Hop Growers of Michigan (HGM), Michigan is now the 4^th member state of the Hop Growers of America (HGA). Washington State, Idaho, and Oregon represent the other member states of HGA. HGA is a 501 C5 nonprofit corporation whose focus is to represent U.S. hop producers through grower support, education, statistics, and promotion. The HGA website is home to many grower tools, up to date research and technical information, as well as educational material for hop enthusiasts.

Hop producers who are members of their state associations have access to the USA Hops website member area, which houses many resources including: Hop breeding and industry research; Supplier and grower directories; Subscription to Hop News; Education modules; and more. Commercial hop producers who reside outside of member states can join HGA as individual grower members. Suppliers, hop-related businesses, and others may also join as industry partners.

This follows other exciting developments in the Michigan hop industry including: a 4^th place finish in the 2017 Cascade Cup, inauguration of the Chinook Cup competition, and implementation of the HGM Verified Source Hop Quality Program. Michigan producers are working hard elevate the entire industry and produce the highest quality hops for brewers in Michigan, across the U.S., and internationally.

Save the Date!

Join us in downtown Traverse City Michigan for the 2019 Great Lakes Hop and Barley Conference on March 1-2 at the newly renovated Park Place Hotel and Conference Center. This year will include a special focus on nutrient and water management, weed control and pruning and training in hops. If you are interested in sponsorship or vendor opportunities, contact Betsy Braid at braidbet@msu.edu.    

Please continue to visit Michigan State University Extension’s hop webpage or the MSU Hops News Facebook site for up to date information.