by 
CASEVILLE, Mich. — A rescued Blanding’s turtle at the Huron County Nature Center is getting his own beer.
Thumb Brewery will host a Huron County Nature Center awareness and fundraising event from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the brewery in Caseville. The event will feature the release of Collin’s Mild Ale, a special beer named for Collin, a rescued Blanding’s turtle now living at the Nature Center.
The event is intended to raise awareness of the Nature Center’s conservation, education and wildlife rehabilitation work. Representatives from the Huron County Nature Center are expected to attend with information about local habitats, protected species and volunteer opportunities.
The brewery will offer complimentary beer samples during the event. A raffle for merchandise also is planned, along with commemorative stainless steel cups sold to benefit the Nature Center. Collin’s Mild Ale will be available on draft and in take-home cans.
Collin will not attend the event. Organizers said his story continues to help teach the public about the need to protect Michigan’s native wildlife and natural areas.
Blanding’s turtles are among Michigan’s native turtle species and are known for their high-domed shells and yellow throats. Wildlife educators often use turtles such as Collin to help explain the pressures facing native species, including habitat loss, road crossings and illegal collection.
The Huron County Nature Center, located near Oak Beach, serves as one of the Thumb’s key outdoor education sites. Its trails, woodland habitat and programs draw residents and visitors interested in native plants, birds, amphibians, reptiles and other wildlife found in the region.
The July 2 event connects that conservation message with one of Caseville’s local gathering places. Thumb Brewery has named the special release for Collin as a way to support the Nature Center and bring more attention to its work.
Event Details
What: Collin’s Mild Ale release and Huron County Nature Center benefit
When: 4 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026
Where: Thumb Brewery, Caseville
Benefit: Huron County Nature Center
Features: Beer samples, raffle, commemorative cups, educational information and volunteer opportunities
Note: Collin the turtle will not attend the event
