In the face of climate change impacting water access and weather patterns in the Willamette Valley, a region known for hops growing, farmers are taking new strategies to sustain their crops. Gayle Goschie, a fourth-generation hops farmer in Mount Angel, Oregon, is adding winter barley to their rotation in preparation for the challenges brought upon by climate change. Some hops and barley growers in the US have already seen their crops impacted by extreme heat, drought, and unpredictable growing seasons.

Researchers are working with growers to counter the effects of more volatile weather systems by developing improved hop varieties that can withstand drought and by introducing winter barley to the mix. A recent study authored by Mirek Trnka, a professor at the Global Change Research Institute, projected that hop yields in Europe will decrease between 4-18% by 2050 due to climate change. Trnka warns that if action is not taken, beer production could be affected. Shaun Townsend, an associate professor and senior researcher at Oregon State University, is working on developing drought-tolerant varieties of hops to combat the impact of climate change.

The impact of climate change on hops production in Europe has also affected American producers. Craft breweries that rely on European hops are now looking for new varieties grown in the US that can replicate their flavors. Researchers are working on breeding hops that can withstand warmer winters, summer heat, changing pests and diseases, and reduced snowfall. While this technology is still a work in progress, the potential for adaptation and solutions in the form of farming changes is promising.

Winter barley is also emerging as a desirable crop for beer production due to its ability to withstand climate challenges. Kevin Smith, a professor at the University of Minnesota, states that winter barley may be more feasible in the Midwest, where other barley types had been abandoned due to climate, plant disease, and economic factors. Winter barley is also being emphasized by craft breweries that want locally grown ingredients. Additionally, it can be grown as a cover crop, benefiting soil health and carbon storage.

The two largest beer companies in the US, Molson Coors and Anheuser Busch, have issued environmental reports pledging commitments to sustainably source hops and barley and reduce water usage. However, they did not respond to requests for specific comments on their efforts. The impact of climate change on the supply chain may result in rising beer prices, as all beverage categories are being affected.

Overall, the challenges posed by climate change to beer production are becoming increasingly evident. Researchers and farmers are working together to develop new strategies and crop varieties that can withstand the effects of climate change. However, the volatility of climate change makes it difficult to provide new varieties that can meet all the challenges. The future of beer production may be at risk if action is not taken to address climate change.