The Hop Growers of New York board is made up of growers, brewers, and industry leaders working together to strengthen and expand New York’s hop sector. Through collaboration, research, and advocacy, the board guides HGNY’s mission to support farms, connect with brewers, and advance the future of New York agriculture.
Leadership Driving New York’s Hop Industry Forward
JOHN CONDZELLA, President
Owner, Condzella’s Farm
John Condzella is a fourth-generation farmer on Long Island, continuing a family legacy rooted in diversified agriculture. At Condzella’s Farm, he oversees the production of a wide range of crops, including berries, small grains, and hops. As President of Hop Growers of New York, John supports grower engagement and industry growth while advancing the role of New York hops within the craft beverage sector.
Rick Pedersen, Vice President
Rick Pedersen is an experienced hop grower who has been cultivating hops in New York since 1999. At Pedersen Farms, he has scaled production and adapted to evolving market demand while maintaining a focus on quality hop varieties. As Vice President of HGNY, Rick contributes to industry collaboration and supports initiatives that strengthen connections between growers and brewers.
Owner, Pedersen Farms
Brian Allis, Treasurer
Owner, Empire Hops
Brian Allis leads a multi-generational farming operation in Wayne County, New York, where he grows hops for craft breweries across the country. Through Empire Hops, he is committed to quality production and sustainable farming practices. As Treasurer of HGNY, Brian supports the organization’s financial stability while advancing opportunities for growers within the craft beer industry.
Greg Koester operates a family-owned farm in Western New York, where he has expanded hop production since first planting in 2015. At Koester Hops, he focuses on cultivating quality hop varieties while continuing to grow farm operations. As Secretary of HGNY, Greg supports organizational coordination and contributes to initiatives that advance New York’s hop industry.
GREG KOESTER, SECRETARY
Owner, Koester Hops
Dietrich Gehring, Board Member
Owner, Indian Ladder Farms
Dietrich Gehring is co-owner of Indian Ladder Farms, a historic New York farm producing a wide range of agricultural products, including estate-grown hops used in its cidery and brewery operations. He is an advocate for agricultural best practices and policy engagement that supports farmers at the state and local level. Through HGNY, Dietrich contributes to initiatives that strengthen the long-term viability of New York’s hop industry.
Cheryl Wygal is a hop grower based in New York’s Finger Lakes region, where she produces hops used by brewers across the Northeast. At Cobblestone Hop Yard, she focuses on delivering high-quality, locally grown hops that reflect the region’s unique terroir. Through her role with HGNY, Cheryl supports grower visibility and the continued growth of New York’s farm-to-brewery movement.
Cheryl Wygal, Board Member
Owner, Cobblestone Hop Yard