Historic Owensboro, Kentucky distillery helps protect Ohio River Watershed through 1% for the Planet program
Bourbon and other distilled spirits have a natural connection to that mission as quality water is a vital component to bourbon.
The partnership is part of Green River’s “Green River Cares” initiative, committed to helping support the local community. In addition to supporting ORF with funding, the distillery team will also participate in regular volunteer efforts. Green River is also committed to sustainable practices. For example, spent grain is shared with local farmers, solar panels are being installed on campus to power all rickhouses, and a 20,000 square foot wildflower habitat and garden supports local bees and other wildlife.
“As proud residents of Owensboro we have a duty to not only care for the environment in our community, but to help protect the watershed that has played such a pivotal role in bourbon production in this region,” said Green River CEO Simon Burch.
Green River Distilling Co. recently launched their much-anticipated flagship Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey—marking the first time in more than a century that the once world-famous bourbon has been on shelves.
“There is no magic bullet in making good whiskey. It’s about getting every ingredient and every step of the process just right,” said Green River Master Distiller Jacob Call. “One of the most important ingredients in any bourbon or spirit, including ours, is quality water. The sources and treatment vary widely, but water is involved in almost every stage of the distillation process from mashing to distilling to bottling.”
“We are so pleased that Green River has chosen to support ORF. In addition to producing a great bourbon, they have already done so much to give back to their community. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act. As a company right on the banks of the Ohio River, they chose a great way to commemorate that landmark initiative and illustrate their continued commitment to protecting the watershed,” said ORF executive director Rich Cogen. “Their support will help our organization follow through on our mission to protect and improve the environment and water quality in the Ohio River Watershed.”
Interested in partnering with the Ohio River Foundation? Learn more at www.ohioriverfdn.org/support-us/. Learn more about how to get involved with 1% for the Planet at https://www.onepercentfortheplanet.org/.
A limited release of Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is available for purchase at the Green River distillery in Owensboro and at select retail locations throughout Kentucky and Tennessee, with availability in more states coming soon. Visit www.greenriverwhiskey.com for more information on availability.