YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — Washington State University researchers who focus on production of hops in Washington state are turning more of their attention to the final product: beer.

Two WSU scientists spent three days in March learning brewing techniques from Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. in California.

Washington state produces 80 percent of all U.S. hops.

WSU researchers already study how irrigation levels and pests can affect the hops that give beer its flavor. At the brewery, they learned how to prevent oxidation in beer to control bitterness.

Researcher Ruth Henderson says better understanding the brewing process will help the WSU crew with its other research. She plans to use what she is learned in her new recipe for Cougar Crimson Ale, an IPA with natural red coloration from grains.

The beer will not be sold.

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