In September of 2012, we decided to dig a little deeper into a matter that spiked our curiosity.
A trip down to London, Ohio to attend the Farm Science Review proved very informative. The Farm Science Review, conducted by the Ohio State University, helped us to expand our knowledge on a very interesting topic --
Hop Farming in Ohio.
While the trip was an early step towards our new endeavor, we were certain it would not be our last!
Less than a year later, we now reside at our farm, we have hops and lavender in the ground, and we are learning more each day.
We are thrilled to have such support from family and friends - THANK YOU!
Sustainable farming is of great importance to us. Our goal is to farm the land, not deplete it. It is our hope that the hops and their companion crops will afford us the opportunity to provide a respectable example for our children.
By nurturing the soil, maintaining high levels of organic material to fuel hop growth, and introducing natural predators to the insects that seek to graze on our plants, we are doing our part on our little slice of the pie.
Sustainable farming and organic methods are not new or original, in fact, the terms alone have become such buzz words in farming circles that many are seeking new words to describe their processes. Still, we feel that they are important enough to lend a little extra elbow grease. Perhaps the term 'natural'?
The politics and opinions that surround organic farming are those of passion. For generations, farms have thrived or died by using methods that aligned with their beliefs. It is our hope that we may learn more from each passing year, each fellow farmer we meet. May we join the leagues of farmers who thrive!
While the future is yet to be written, it will be our goal to provide craft and home brewers of North Ohio the opportunity to brew with local, sustainably grown, organic hops.
So we raise our glass, tip back a sip, and dig deep -- for the sake of great local beer!
...fast forward to 2018...
we relocated to Summit County and a new patch of dirt. From our first weeks, we've been working to enrich our soil, fortify our resources, and sow the seeds that will bring great returns to our homestead and our community.
February 2018, we have maple water available. If you are are local restaurateur, coffee house, or household that enjoys a fine cup of jo' (or tea), our maple water will offer an unmatched seasonal flare! Available in 1 - 5 gallon increments. Please contact compasscrops@gmail.com to make arrangements for your maple water.