RENO, Nev. (AP) -- Reno beer drinkers may soon be able to start enjoying a craft beer made from hops grown locally.

 

The Reno nonprofit organization Urban Roots is planting 10 different kinds of hops to see how well they do in a high desert climate.

 

Urban Roots' executive director Jeff Bryant says they could be a workable alternative for farmers because hops require much less water than other crops such as alfalfa.

 

Bryant told the Reno Gazette-Journal (http://tinyurl.com/kuk8kyp) that the craft beer market is growing in Reno, and the new hops will give them quality, local product.

 

Bryant says planting will begin in April and the hop vines will take about three years to reach maturity.