The Rising Tide of Chehalis Hops

The first sale of hops this season was made Monday, when Mr. Howard disposed of ninety-one bales to Seattle parties for cents. Local growers are somewhat dissatisfied with the prices offered and are now talking of sending John Dobson direct to England with from 500 to 900 bales. The crop this year, while not up to the standard in quantity, is of very good quality, and the amount of hops raised in the country tributary to Chehalis is nearly double that of last year. Mr. Dobson says that there will be a still further increase next year, as it is thoroughly settled that by exercising care the lice can be destroyed. Many acres are about to be planted. The company expects to put in twenty-six and a half acres in the spring and Eb Russell will plant twenty-five acres. Others are turning their attention that way. It is safe to say the acreage of hops in the county will be increased at least one third this spring. Mr. Dobson is of the opinion that this will within five years become the principal hop center of the state. The soil and climate are extremely favorable. The continued success of growers here, when the crop has in many other places been a partial failure, has opened the eyes of the farmers.