By Susan Brouillette
South Burlington--For growers to profit from growing hops commercially, having access to both practical and research-based information on production, management strategies and the latest industry developments is the key to success.
University of Vermont (UVM) Extension has invited a number of experts from Vermont and throughout the country to speak to growers at the sixth annual Hop Conference, Feb. 20 at the Sheraton Hotel and Conference Center in South Burlington. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. with the conference getting underway at 9 a.m.
The registration fee is $70, or $60 for Northeast Hop Alliance members, and includes lunch. Individuals who are not able to attend may watch the conference as a live broadcast for $35.
The deadline to register is Feb. 17. Information and registration may be found at www.uvm.edu/extension/hopsconference. Anyone requiring a disability-related accommodation to attend should contact Susan Brouillette at (802) 524-6501 or (800) 639-2130 (within Vermont) by Feb. 6.
Growers will get tips on production and management of the hop yard from two experienced Northeast hops growers. Tom Barse, co-owner of Stillpoint Farm in Mt. Airy, Maryland, will talk about equipment innovations and weeding with sheep as well as ways to build a farmer-brewer relationship. Rick Pedersen from Pedersen Farms in Seneca Castle, New York, will discuss what it takes to produce quality hops including labor, processing and other requirements.
On the research side, Zac German, laboratory and technical manager at Yakima-Chief Hopunion in Yakima, Washington, will explain what goes on in a hop quality testing lab and talk about varietal selection, root stock, cone quality, harvesting and kilning best practices. Representatives from John I. Haas, Inc., a U.S. leader in research and development of processed hop products, will discuss production and processing practices.
Several members of UVM Extension's Northwest Crops and Soils Team also will speak to growers. Julian Post will describe the latest in hop harvesting equipment while Lily Calderwood and Scott Lewins will focus on statewide scouting and integrated pest management options including pest control products, cover crops and varietal resistance.
Rounding out the agenda is a panel of brewers, moderated by Kurt Staudter from the Vermont Brewers Association, who will offer insight into establishing a connection with local brewers.
For more information, call (802) 524-6501 or (800) 639-2130 to speak with Susan Brouillette or Heather Darby.