Northeast Hop Alliance

Growing Hops in Maryland

Bryan Butler from the University of Maryland provides critical lessons on starting a hopyard learned from establishing a  hopyard at the Agricultural Experiment Station in Keedsville, Maryland. 

Safety on the Farm

Creating a safe working environment on the farm is important to the success of your farm business enterprise. The New York Center for Agriculture Medicine and Health has many great resources on potential hazards that you might encounter in your hopyard or while harvesting. Please take time to critically review all aspects of your operation and make safe choices.

Integrated Pest Management

Integrated Pest Management is an ecosystem-based approach to pest management that relies on a combination of management techniques including biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties. Pesticides are only used after economic thresholds of damage are reached. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Starting a Hop Farm in New York

So you want to start a hop farm? Start here to learn about the finances, marketing, and characteristics of a hop plant.

Updated May 2017

Biology and Physiology of a Hop Plant

Understanding the basic physiology of a hop plant can help you make better decisions about planting your hopyard.

The Cornell Small Farms Program

Need help turning your farm dream into reality? The Cornell Small Farms Program is here to help you. From self-guided modules to online classes, use the Cornell Small Farms Program to build the skills and the confidence you need to build the hopfarm of your dreams.

Financial Analysis of Hop Farm

Ready to invest in your dream? Wondering if you can turn a profit? On the USA Hops website there are three detailed spreadsheets that were devloped by staff from Michigan State and University of Vermont for 5, 10, and 20 Acre hops farms that can help you piece together a budget and cost of production to take to the bank. 

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A detailed budget sheet is available through the University of Vermont. This downloadable excel file allows you to create enterprise budgets that will help you project expenses and revenues during the first five years of hopyard operation.