Improved U.S. Hops Harvest

WASHINGTON - Jan 11/08 - SNS -- Hops production in 2007 in the United States totaled 60.3 million pounds, up 4% from the 2006 crop of 57.7 million pounds and 14% above the 2005 production of 52.9 million pounds, according to the USDA final crop report for 2007.

Idaho's production decreased 9% in 2007. Production in Washington and Oregon increased 5% and 8%, respectively. Acreage in 2007 was up in all three States with a 5% increase overall. Yields decreased slightly in Washington to 2,049 pounds per acre, and increased in Oregon to 1,811 pounds per acre. Due to an increase in the presence of "babies", Idaho yields dropped to 1,417 pounds per acre, 196 pounds less than a year ago.

Washington growers produced 77% of the U.S. hop crop for 2007. Zeus, Columbus/Tomahawk, Willamette, and Galena 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 79% of the State's hop production.

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