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?Saugatuck Brewing Company collaborates with Michigan Department of Natural Resources to launch Lake Street Light lager, supporting lake sturgeon conservation efforts statewide.
In a significant move to bolster Michigan’s aquatic conservation efforts, Saugatuck Brewing Company has announced a partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This collaboration introduces the Lake Street Light x Lake Sturgeon Program, set to commence in April 2025, aiming to raise awareness and funds for the preservation of Michigan’s lake sturgeon population.?
Lake Street Light Lager: A Brew with a Purpose
The centerpiece of this initiative is the launch of Lake Street Light, a light lager characterized by its crisp and refreshing profile, containing only 96 calories and boasting a 4% alcohol by volume (ABV). Inspired by the serene beauty of Michigan’s lakes and waterways, this brew embodies the state’s rich natural heritage. A portion of the proceeds from every sale will directly support the DNR’s efforts to restore lake sturgeon habitats and enhance their populations.?
Sara Van Splinter, Director of Marketing at Saugatuck Brewing Company, emphasized the deeper significance of this endeavor:?
“Lake Street Light is more than just a beer—it’s a nod to Michigan’s wild heart. These shores, our ‘Lake Street,’ are home to countless species, and we’re proud to help protect one of them: the lake sturgeon, living fossils that have swum since the time of dinosaurs. This partnership with the Michigan DNR allows us to give back to the waters we love while sharing the story of these remarkable creatures.” ?
The Plight of the Lake Sturgeon
Lake sturgeon are integral to Michigan’s aquatic ecosystems, often referred to as “living fossils” due to their existence spanning over 100 million years. Despite their resilience, these ancient fish have faced significant population declines attributed to habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing. The DNR has been actively engaged in conservation projects aimed at reversing this trend and ensuring the survival of the species.?Detroit Free Press
Patrick Ertel, from the Habitat Management Unit of the DNR’s Fisheries Division, highlighted the historical significance of these creatures:?
“To say that lake sturgeon are a major part of Michigan’s aquatic history doesn’t quite do them justice. These fish have been around for more than 100 million years, which may be hard to even comprehend. In terms of more recent generations, there are individual sturgeon in our waters today that are older than anyone reading about this partnership. We’re excited to partner with Saugatuck Brewing Company to highlight this incredibly persistent fish and the fact that some lake sturgeon currently in Michigan waters have been there since before the invention of the automobile. Think about that!” ?State of Michigan | Michigan.gov
Building on Past Success
This initiative follows the successful Rainbow Rodeo IPA Program, a previous collaboration between Saugatuck Brewing Company and the Michigan DNR. From May through October 2024, this program raised $10,000 to support habitat restoration projects focused on Michigan’s trout population. John Miller, CEO of Saugatuck Brewing Company, reflected on the partnership:?
“Working alongside the Michigan DNR was an incredible experience and a true team effort. Together, we raised not only funds but also awareness about the importance of protecting Michigan’s natural habitats.” ?
Expanding Conservation Efforts Beyond Michigan
Looking ahead, Saugatuck Brewing Company plans to extend the Lake Street Light x Lake Sturgeon Program to neighboring Great Lakes states. By collaborating with other DNR agencies, the brewery aims to amplify conservation and habitat restoration efforts across the region, fostering a broader impact on the preservation of the lake sturgeon.?
A Commitment to Michigan’s Natural Resources
Both the Lake Street Light x Lake Sturgeon Program and the Rainbow Rodeo IPA Program exemplify Saugatuck Brewing Company’s dedication to sustainable practices and community engagement in preserving Michigan’s natural resources. By intertwining their brewing craft with environmental stewardship, they set a precedent for how local businesses can contribute meaningfully to conservation efforts.?
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