The Associated Press reported today that, “Malt barley farmers in 44 upstate New York counties are now eligible for crop insurance from the federal government.
“Malt barley is a necessary ingredient in beer and spirits, and the lack of crop insurance had hindered expansion of the craft brewing industry in New York.”
The AP article explained that, “The state now has approximately 2,000 acres of malt barley. Because of New York’s Farm Brewing Law, it is estimated malt barley production will have to grow fifteen-fold in the next decade to meet the needs of New York brewers and distillers.”
