Interested in learning more about hops production?
Michigan State University Extension to offer “Getting started with hops production” webinar.
February 7, 2014 - Author: Rob Sirrine, Michigan State University Extension
Interest in hop production in the Great Lakes Region has increased dramatically over the last few years. With support from a thriving craft brewing industry, many growers across the region are beginning to recognize the potential financial benefits of increasing farm diversity and/or expanding their current agricultural operations to include hops. Michigan State University Extension survey results suggest there were over 200 acres of hops and eight processing operations in Michigan in 2013 and more to come in 2014. Similar growth and interest is occurring in states across the North Central and Northeast Regions, as well as Eastern Canada. An increase in the geographic diversity of hops production outside of the Pacific Northwest has been encouraged by craft brewers and the Brewers Association, a national organization whose mission is “To promote and protect small and independent American brewers, their craft beers and the community of brewing enthusiasts.”
If you are interested in learning more about hops production, then sign up soon for the Michigan State University Extension Beginning Farmer Webinar series on “Getting Started with Hops Production.” The session will cover all aspects of production including: history; biology; cultivar selection; trellis design, setup, and cost; pest and disease management; soils and site selection; best management practices; picking and processing; cost of picking and processing as well as marketing and sales.
The webinar will take place on February 24, 7 - 9 p.m. The cost is $10. For more information on the “Getting started with hops production webinar” please contact Rob Sirrine, MSU Extension Community Food Systems Educator, sirrine@msu.edu or visit the MSU Hops Production Website.
The 2014 MSU Extension Beginning Farmer Webinar Series is an ongoing educational opportunity for people new to farming or interested in learning more about novel crops. Registration is currently open for the following webinars:
- Getting started with hops production
- Getting started with selling to schools and hospitals
- Getting started with selling at farmers markets
- Getting started with a CSA farm
- Getting started with hoophouses
