History of New York Hop Farms
History of New York Hop Farms
History of New York Hop Farms
History of the New York Hop Farms states at one time, the hops industry was extremely important in New York. The state was producing a major portion of hops and ruling the industry. In the History of New York Hop Farms the year 1880 saw the production of 21 million pounds. In 1849, Central New York gained the title of national leadership in hop production. By 1855, they were selling upwards of 3 million pounds year after year.
The History of the Halt in New York Hop Farms
However, beer making soon came to a halt in New York. Not only was there the instatement of prohibition, but there was also a devastating fungus early in the 1900’s. A disease of foliage known as Downy mildew, this fungus-like organism is passed through the air from plant to plant causing debilitating destruction to a majority of crops.
The New York Brewing Law, Locally Grown Hops
In July of 2012, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo passed the farm Brewing Law, it’s effective date being that following January. As per the law, receiving a New York Brewery License meant the beer’s sources were products being grown locally. The schedule stipulations indicate that until the end of 2018, the amount of hops and all of the other ingredients used must be at least 20% each New York grown. From there, no less than 60% each of hops and all other ingredients must be New York grown starting January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2023. Then beginning in January of 2024, hops and all other ingredients must be no less than 90% each New York grown.
While the farm brewing industry is now back on the rise, those farms which are growing hops are asked to fill out a form connecting them with farm brewers who need their product. The form may be obtained from:
New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
Division of Food Safety and Inspection
10B Airline Drive
Albany, New York 12235
Email: john.luker@agriculture.ny.gov
