Widmer Brothers Brewing's participation in the WRC program uses funds provided by Widmer Brothers to balance the brewery's water use for its Drifter Pale Ale by restoring water to critically dewatered rivers and streams, improving water quality and enhancing fish and wildlife habitats.

"This program goes beyond the traditional measures such as pollution prevention and re-use and sets a new standard for water stewardship," said Rob Harmon, chief innovation officer at the Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF). "The WRC program focuses on the improvement of water resources today and in the future. We rely on partners like Widmer Brothers for the success of this program and commend them for their commitment to the restoration and preservation of natural resources."

"We are very excited to be embarking on this project and feel Drifter is a natural fit for this partnership," said Rob Widmer. "Oregon's water quality is some of the best in the country and we want to ensure it stays that way. Oregon water is the single largest ingredient used to brew our beer, therefore, forging the relationship with BEF is an important initiative to us."

In addition to participating in the WRC program, Widmer Brothers Brewing was recently recognized for its work in implementing sustainable practices into the brewing and bottling processes by the BEST Business Center which named Widmer a "Portland Climate Champion." The brewery's sustainable efforts include the use of lighter bottles, investing in wind power and the introduction of a program designed to use the most environmentally efficient shipping methods.

About Drifter Pale Ale:
Drifter Pale Ale has a distinctive hop character. It is brewed with generous amounts of Summit hops, a variety known for its intense citrus flavors and aromas. Drifter has a crisp and clean finish while remaining smooth and balanced.

About the Bonneville Environmental Foundation's Water Restoration Certificate Program:
Launched in August 2009, Bonneville's Environmental Foundation Water Restoration Certificate (WRC) program is the first national-level, market-based solution that enables businesses to take responsibility for water consumption by helping restore water flow to critically de-watered creeks and rivers. Standards and criteria for the WRC program have been certified by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to ensure water is returned in ways that provide the greatest environmental benefit to the surrounding region, including the support of fish and wildlife.

About Widmer Brothers Brewing
What started as a dream for two ordinary brothers who just loved beer has now become a reality for two ordinary brothers who still just love beer. Kurt and Rob Widmer helped lead the Pacific Northwest craft beer movement in 1984 when, in their 20s, they dreamed of brewing American interpretations of authentic European style beers. In 1986, Widmer Brothers Brewing introduced the first American-style Hefeweizen; today, the unfiltered cloudy beer is the company's signature brew and one of the best selling wheat beers in the country. Based in Portland, Ore., the brewery produces a variety of beers including Drifter Pale Ale, Drop Top Amber Ale, Broken Halo IPA, and Deadlift Imperial IPA. For more information about Widmer Brothers Brewing, visit www.widmer.com.