In the vibrant ambiance of a crisp autumn day, Gayle Goschie’s farm, located approximately an hour away from Portland, Oregon, bustled with activity as tractors navigated their way through the fields. As a fourth-generation hops farmer, Goschie found herself immersed in the beer business. While fall typically represents the off-season when the trellises stand barren, her farming team recently embarked on a new endeavor that involved incorporating winter barley into their crop rotation, cultivating bucketfuls of barley seeds.
Goschie’s deep-rooted connection to agriculture spans generations, and her commitment to the beer industry is evident in the diverse range of crops she cultivates. Despite the barrenness of the trellises during the fall months, the farm remains a hub of productivity. Tractors crisscross the sprawling fields, leaving trails in their wake, as the vibrant atmosphere resonates with the hum of agricultural endeavors.
This year, however, a notable addition has taken shape on Goschie’s farm – winter barley. Traditionally, hops have been the backbone of her farming operations, but now she seeks to tap into the potential of this relatively newer crop within the beer industry. Winter barley, with its unique characteristics and versatile applications, has piqued the interest of farmers like Goschie who are eager to expand their agricultural horizons.
Preparation for the inclusion of winter barley began in earnest, with Goschie’s farming team dedicating itself to meticulously processing and readying bucketfuls of barley seeds. The careful selection and treatment of these seeds lay the foundation for a successful harvest in the seasons to come. This new and exciting venture signifies a departure from the familiar routine of hop cultivation, allowing Goschie and her team to explore uncharted territories within the beer production landscape.
As the tractors traverse the expansive farmland, the sight of bare trellises serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of agriculture. The fall season, typically associated with a lull in farming activities, now manifests as a period of transformation and adaptation. Goschie’s decision to diversify her crop rotation is emblematic of a broader trend within the beer industry, as farmers recognize the need to embrace innovation and explore alternative ingredients that can impart unique flavors and aromas to their brews.
In the heartland of Oregon’s agricultural landscape, Gayle Goschie stands at the forefront of this progressive movement. With her unwavering commitment to sustainable and forward-thinking farming practices, she embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and resilience that characterizes the American agricultural tradition. As the tractors continue to crisscross her farm, meticulously preparing the seeds of winter barley, one can’t help but anticipate the bountiful harvests and flavorful beers that lie on the horizon, a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the beer business and the pioneers who shape its future.
