Ontario District

The document discusses the Public Hop Breeding Program led by Eric Sannerud, which aims to promote sustainable hop production free from profit motives. It highlights the decline in public hop acreage and the growing prevalence of proprietary hops, emphasizing the necessity of public hops for market stability, farmer independence, and consumer choice. The program includes greenhouse crosses, field trials, and the introduction of new hop varieties like HRC-002, HRC-003, and HRC-004, which are available for purchase. Sannerud advocates for the support of public hops to foster a healthier and more equitable hop market.%0aThe text also outlines a presentation on the benefits of the Public Hop Breeding Program for various stakeholders, including farmers, merchants, brewers, and consumers. It addresses the current market dynamics, including changes in merchant incentives and the advantages of public hop varieties. The presentation encourages engagement with public hops and mentions specific experimental lines that are available for trial, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and community involvement in the hop industry.