Montérégie Producers: Join the new regional cohort for brewing barley!
FoodBridge is proud to announce the launch of a regional cohort dedicated to microbrewing-quality barley in Montérégie, supported by MAPAQ. This two-year initiative (2025-2026) aims to support agricultural producers in integrating and optimizing this key crop. By promoting sustainable agri-environmental practices and strengthening ties with the brewing sector, this project is set to be a stepping stone for diversifying rotations and boosting agricultural resilience in the region.
Why brewing barley?
Microbrewing-quality barley offers a unique opportunity to diversify crops while meeting the growing demand from Quebec’s microbreweries for high-quality local grains. Beyond its economic potential, this crop helps improve soil health through sustainable agri-environmental practices, particularly by enabling cover crops after harvest and supporting late harvesting with fall barley.
FoodBridge, in collaboration with regional partners, aims to strengthen this promising sector by assisting producers on several fronts: improving yields, optimizing post-harvest practices and connecting with buyers in the brewing sector.
What the cohort offers producers
Participating in this cohort means receiving tailored support and multiple learning opportunities:
- Training and field visits: Discover the best practices for growing microbrewing-quality barley that meets the quality standards required by microbreweries. These sessions will provide practical advice on crop management, variety selection, and disease control.
- Producer exchanges: A community of farmers sharing similar challenges. These exchanges of experiences will help find innovative, tailored solutions.
- Post-harvest support: Gain a better understanding of crucial stages such as harvesting, drying and storage to ensure optimal grain quality.
- Networking activities with buyers: Meetings with key players in the brewing sector, allowing producers to understand market needs, overcome marketing challenges and build strong partnerships.
An opportunity to transform agriculture in Montérégie
Montérégie, a leading grain-producing region in Quebec, has the potential to become an excellent hub for brewing barley. By integrating this crop into their rotations, producers can not only diversify their production but also improve soil health and reduce their environmental footprint.
This project aligns with FoodBridge’s mission to promote sustainable and resilient agriculture by combining innovation, collaboration and knowledge transfer.
Join the cohort!
Interested agricultural producers can still join this initiative. Whether you are already growing barley or looking to incorporate it into your rotations, FoodBridge is here to support you.
For more information or to discuss your participation, contact us today.