Jul 26, 2021 — Farmers to get boost in craft beer supply pipeline

An agency known most as a guardian of Indiana County waterways and as an ally to area farm operators and the agriculture community has set out on a grant-funded program that meets both missions in a new way.

Indiana County Conservation District is joining with area farmers and brewers to create an educational program for hops and malt grains production.

In the process, area brewhouses will soon have a new ale to serve on tap.

ICCD has been awarded almost $38,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for a project to increase market opportunities and boost competitiveness for special crops in the state. The district is one of eight agencies to share in the PDA funds.

District Manager Doug Beri called the program an unusual chance to improve public understanding of a distinct slice of the Indiana County farm in...