California breweries hit a new milestone this morning: There are now 900 breweries in the Golden State, the California Craft Brewers Association announced, and nearly 92 percent of California residents now live within 10 miles of a brewery.

To put that into perspective, there were just 300 California craft breweries in 2012. Last year alone, California added more than 100 licensed breweries to its roster, an increase not only greater than any other state, but more than the total licensed number of breweries in 34 states.

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Craft beer news: GABF goes virtual with 1,000 breweries California’s rapid growth has been accompanied by serious dollars, too, says Bart Watson, chief economist for the industry’s nonprofit trade association. Last year, the state’s craft breweries produced 3.3 million barrels of beer, and exported 1.17 million barrels. The state industry represents 11 percent — $7.3 billion — of the national craft brewing industry’s $67.8 billion economic impact.

The results play out in communities, as well as on spreadsheets, says trade association executive director Tom McCormick. “Craft breweries have a tangible influence on the growth and development of their region, investing in their community, employing their neighbors and supporting local nonprofits. Craft breweries are the living room, the town hall and the gathering place for their community.”

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