Breweries are staunch supporters of their local communities and often get directly involved in programs aimed at making the environment cleaner and life better for all. A prime example is the partnership between Tennessee Brew Works and the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy which just announced the expansion of their philanthropic partnership, first started in 2017.
Tennessee Brew Works launched its State Park Blonde Ale two years ago. Made using 100 percent Tennessee grains, this beer is significant because it was the first craft beer that honored Tennessee’s state parks. A portion of all sales were donated to the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy and in 2018, proceeds amounted to $7,000. This figure increased to $9,000 in 2019 and are estimated to reach $12,000 in 2020.
Part of the reason for the higher estimation in 2020 is the expansion of the distribution footprint for Tennessee Brew Works State Park Blonde Ale. The brewery also plans to expand its “Drink Beer, Give Back” fundraising program and extend its Tennessee State Parks charity drive in its taproom.
Tennessee brew Works founder and president Christian Spears says the effort to expand and grow the program was made possible through the efforts of many people and organizations.
“Tennessee Brew Works was founded with a mission to create high quality craft beer that pays homage to the land, traditions and culture of Tennessee. Our relationship with the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy is based on those principles as our State Park Blonde Ale is made with 100-percent all Tennessee grain and benefits our 56 State Parks each day,” said Spears. “We owe a special thanks to our distributors and concessionaires including DET Distributing, Eagle Distributing, Ajax Distributing, Budweiser of Chattanooga, L&H Distributing and Delaware North for their continued support of this cause. We are also grateful for all the help from area retailers including: Honky Tonk Central, Rippy’s BBQ, Kid Rock’s Honky Tonk, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Wildhorse Saloon, Tupelo Honey, Cool Beans Bar and Grill, Sokno Taco Cantina, Central Flats and Taps, West Hills Flats and Taps.”
Anyone who frequents one of Tennessee’s state parks benefits from this brewery/state park relationship. Jim Bryson, deputy commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, says the partnership is great for maintaining Tennessee’s natural beauty.
“We appreciate the work the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy does on our behalf, and we look forward to the parks continuing to benefit from the relationship,” said Bryson. “The Conservancy uses funds from the partnership with Tennessee Brew Works to support preservation of natural resources in our 56 state parks, so we are pleased with the success of the program,” Bryson added.
Tennessee Brew Works State Park Blonde Ale was brewed for widespread appeal. On one hand, it has qualities similar to those of the more popular macro brews. But on the other hand, it has a craft beer persona that makes it appealing to the artisanal craft crowd. The idea, of course, is to widen the appeal, maximize awareness, and donate as much as possible to the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy in the process.
Tennessee is a state with much to offer those who enjoy outdoor recreation. The state has a large number of nature areas and its state park system is utilized by tens of thousands of outdoor enthusiasts each year. Grab a six pack of Tennessee Brew Works State Park Blonde Ale and help support this important cause. Current and future generations of Tennesseans will thank you for your efforts.
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