In a recent article, Bart Watson, Chief Economist for the Brewers Association in the US, analysed the USDA’s June Hop Acreage Report.  Although the article focuses mainly on the primary hop growing regions of the Pacific NorthWest of the US, he does touch on some consideration for small, but increasing hop acreage in Eastern North America.

Of particular interest for hop growers in all regions is Watson’s caution on historical hop prices:  “Historically, hops prices have been incredibly sensitive to demand. When there is a shortage, they tend to rise very quickly. On the flip side, when there is a surplus, prices can drop rapidly.”

To read Watson’s full article, follow the link to the Brewer’s Association website: http://www.brewersassociation.org/insights/hop-acreage-report/