Hope is in the hops: Local craft brewers partner with NDRC to protect the Clean Water Act

"Being surrounded by the Great Lakes here in Michigan, water is something that we've always cherished, and we never take it for granted," says Dave Engbers, co-founder and VP of brand and education for Founders Brewing Company. "Water is life -- nothing exists without water."

Over 20 breweries across the nation -- including three here in GR -- have teamed with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to stand up for clean water by launching the "Brewers for Clean Water" campaign. Their mission is to send a strong and straightforward message: Without clean sources of water, you can't make great beer.
 
"Whether brewers are creating ales, pilsners, porters, wits, or stouts, one ingredient must go into every batch: clean water," says NRDC Water Program Senior Policy Analyst Karen Hobbs. "Craft brewers need clean water to make great beer. This campaign is all about amplifying their voices in support of the most important protection for their most important ingredient, the Clean Water Act."

Few industries depend on clean water as much as craft brewers. While hops and malt can be sourced elsewhere, breweries are reliant on their local water supplies -- and the protections of the Clean Water Act to ensure the quality and availability of their main ingredient.

In recent years, attempts to roll back Clean Water Act protections have endangered not just the most important ingredient for craft beer, but also public health and resources for a wide range of industries. In joining the campaign, the brewers have taken NRDC's "Clean Water Pledge," acknowledging the importance of clean water and clean water safeguards. These issues are even more relevant today, as the public awaits improved Clean Water Act protections for American streams, wetlands, and headwaters. These reforms are due soon in Washington, D.C.

The multi-billion-dollar craft brewing industry brings a compelling business voice to clean water issues. Craft brewers are closely tied to their communities with a very real understanding of what bad policy can do to regional water sources.

Grand Rapids brewers that have taken the Clean Water Pledge are:

- Brewery Vivant
- Founders Brewing Company
- Harmony Brewing Company  


Get involved:
- Learn more about Brewers for Clean Water
- Take action.
- Follow the NRDC's Facebook page.
- Support your local breweries -- drink beer!
- Conserve water and 'shower with a buddy'.

Sources: Dave Engbers, Founders Brewing Company; Richard Exton, Jr., Seigenthaler Public Relations
Writer: Victoria Mullen, Do Good Editor

Images: Courtesy of Founders Brewing Company