by Molly Priddy, Flathead Beacon
LAKESIDE – The Flathead is known for its many agricultural products, such as cherries and winter wheat, and now the valley may be on the forefront of a growing revolution, one with decidedly boozier origins and green potential.
Last week, Ann George, administrator of Hop Growers of America (HGA), visited the Tamarack Brewing Company to discuss the past and future of hops, the bitter, green, conic flowers used for flavoring and stabilizing beer.
George’s message was one of promise for a fledgling agricultural industry in the Flathead: as microbreweries continue to gain a foothold in the beer market, hops are also gaining popularity.
Montana-grown hops are also gaining traction in the larger market, which in the U.S. is largely centered on the Pacific Northwest growing zone. Tom Britz, who grows 43 varietals at his Glacier Hops Ranch, was recently elected to the newly formed Small Grower Council as part of the HGA.
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Source: Flathead Beacon
