hops

Hop farming in the northwest hit its peak in 2021, right when craft beer was at its most popular, and acreage has been quietly shrinking every year since.

After a yearlong pause, USDA reinstated the University of Idaho's five-year $59 million grant last month aimed at helping farmers test regenerative production.

With hop stocks down significantly this year, the craft beer scene could face some major changes ahead.

Hop production nationwide totaled 83.1 million pounds in 2025, down 5% from the 2024 crop. Decreases were reported in each Northwest state.

With harvest ramping up across the region, the Washington State Tree Fruit Association has a message for all growers, workers, or anyone in the orchard: "Be on the lookout for Japanese beetle."

Oregon has reclaimed the #2 spot in the nation when it comes to hop production. According to USDA, Oregon hop growers strung 5,421 acres in 2025, moving past Idaho which strung 5,109 acres.

The growing season is just getting started, but there are already concerns that it could be difficult year for producers in central Washington.  Scott Ravell, manager of the Roza Irrigation District said the Yakima Valley is dealing with some difficult economic conditions.   “...

According to NASS, the inventory of hops held by growers, dealers, and brewers on March 1st totaled 173 million pounds, down 6% from March 1, 2024 numbers, which had a stocks inventory of 184 million pounds.       Stocks held at dealer and grower locations to start the month totaled 150 million pounds.  Stocks held by br...

The hop industry is reeling from the announcement that two of its researchers were fired, thanks to the Administration's ongoing effort to trim federal spending.  Maggie Elliot, Science and Communication Director at the Washington Hop Commission and Hop Growers of America, said Hop Horticulturist Dr. Paco Gon...

Oregon’s Brewers Guild says 2024 was one of the worst years ever for the craft beer industry.  Guild President and Brewmaster Sam Pecoraro said the economic impact is felt throughout the state.   “The brewing industry in Oregon supports 50,000 jobs, and a lot of those jobs are agriculture related. We’re the second or third...