Washington Beer Industry Stands Up For Public Lands!
Washington Wild coordinated a letter signed by 82 breweries, hop growers, maltsters, pubs, and distributors across all 10 congressional districts to show strong, united support for our public lands. From Toppenish to Mazama, Port Angeles to Colbert, these businesses are standing together against any and all public land selloffs—because the land that surrounds us is just as vital to our communities as what ends up in our glass.
Clean Water Makes Great Beer
It’s no coincidence that Washington State is one of the most robust, diverse, and high-quality beer-making regions in the world. As water flows from the Cascades and Olympics, it picks up natural minerals that enhance the flavor of beer. However, it can also gather pollutants that require expensive treatment—something that can affect both the brewing process and the final product.
Fortunately, Washington is home to vast, intact ecosystems, including over 12 million acres of federal public lands. These natural landscapes act as filtration systems, keeping water clean as it moves downstream. Because of this, many Washington brewers can use water that needs little to no treatment.
Beyond the water that makes up 95% of what’s in your pint, as the most productive hop-growing region in North America, our hop growers also depend on water that flows from our public lands to their farms. By protecting rivers, lakes, streams, and wetlands, we are allowing our Washington breweries to continue to make the delicious lagers and ales that are emblematic of our region.
Photo: Courtesy of Dru Bru
Peaks, Then Pints—It’s a Washington Thing
Beyond their reliance on clean water, many of Washington’s taprooms also serve as beloved gathering spots after a day spent exploring the great outdoors. Few things feel more quintessentially “Washington” than enjoying a cold craft beer after hiking through old-growth forests, fishing a wild river, or carving turns on a snow-covered peak.
Our national parks, forests, and other federal public lands offer unforgettable—and responsibly managed—recreation opportunities for both residents and visitors. In fact, according to a 2020 report by Earth Economics, outdoor recreation in Washington fuels $26.5 billion in annual spending and supports 264,000 jobs statewide. This steady flow of outdoor activity and post-adventure relaxation helps sustain local economies and strengthen the fabric of our communities.
A Call to Congress: Protect What Sustains Us
From trail to tap, Washington’s public lands are essential to who we are and what we love. As Washingtonians and brewers, that’s why our craft brewing industry is standing together to protect the lands that give so much back. The Washington State brewing community firmly believes that public lands must be safeguarded from policy threats in Washington, D.C., and be adequately staffed to ensure their long-term health and accessibility.
By signing the comment letter below, breweries, hop growers, maltsters, and distributors across the state are calling on Washington’s congressional delegation to fight for the public lands that their businesses—and their communities—love and depend on.
