I've been working with an island farmer to explore the possibility of growing malting barley on Vashon. This is a big deal for several reasons:
1. We can use barley varieties that offer more flavor than the typical commercial malt.
2. We can grow winter barley on Vashon that will need little or no irrigation. The single biggest use of water for producing beer is irrigation water for growing barley.
3. Support island farmers by creating a local market for a relatively high value crop that is largely grown out of season.
The 1/2 acre test plot is doing great, and Nathan has ordered a combine needed for harvesting a larger crop this coming winter. Over the next few months I'll be securing bids to have the barley malted. If all goes well, I'll be looking to recruit other farmers to grow malting barley for the brewery.