Bigger U.S. Hop Harvest

WASHINGTON - Dec 16/06 - SNS -- Hop production for Idaho, Oregon, and Washington in 2006 totaled 57.7 million pounds, up 9% from the 2005 crop of 52.9 million pounds, and 4% above the 2004 production of 55.2 million pounds, according to the USDA.

Idaho's production decreased 16% in 2006. Production in Washington and Oregon increased 12% and 10%, respectively. Washington showed a 2% acreage increase. Oregon and Idaho acreage were down 2% and 15%, respectively.

Yields increased in Washington to 2,058 pounds per acre, and in Oregon to 1,760 pounds per acre. Idaho yields averaged 1,613 pounds per acre, 27 pounds less than a year ago.

Washington growers produced 77% of the U.S. hop crop for 2006. Zeus, Columbus/Tomahawk, Galena, and Willamette were the leading varieties in Washington, accounting for 71% of the State's hop crop. In Oregon, Willamette and Nugget were the major varieties, accounting for 77% of the State's hop production.

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