05/15/2026
Snowpack to Six-Pack: Part II. The supply of nature's reservoir directly impacts the hops in the valley floor below the mountains, and subsequently the beer in your six-pack.
Four years ago, we released Part I of Snowpack to Six-Pack, highlighting the intrinsic connection and importance of water in our industry, our community, our economy, and our eco-system. Four years later, we are heading into our fourth consecutive drought year, and water is on our minds. We are diving deeper into the pressure of water supply and how the hop and beer community are navigating the obstacles and looking to the future. Here's where we are at today:
A major portion of our water supply comes from the annual snowfall in the mountains, which feeds down into our rivers and water systems as it melts over the spring and summer months. However, we experienced warmest temperatures throughout the winter season since 1895, and extremely low levels of snowfall. Our local agriculture community is facing a daunting challenge following Winter 25-26. Since we recorded this video, the state of Washington has declared a drought season ahead of harvest 2026 with the lowest levels of snowpack in a decade.
While drought is not unexpected for our region's climate, the frequency is a concern. We are facing the realities and very present challenges of climate change.
Water is a vital source for hops and beer. How we protect it, conserve it, utilize it, and adapt to it, matters tremendously.
Watch the full video to learn more.
🎥: Digital Vendetta Productions
Special Thanks to:
Selah Moxee Irrigation District
Roza Irrigation District
Maine Beer Company
Yakima Chief Ranches
Carpenter Ranches, LLC
Black Star Ranch, BSR hops
Loftus Ranches
