James B. Beam Distilling Co. and Bernheim Forest & Arboretum Renew Natural Water Sanctuary Alliance
James B. Beam Distilling Co. and Bernheim Forest & Arboretum Renew Natural Water Sanctuary Alliance
Renewed partnership underscores joint commitment to protecting vital natural resources and ensuring long-term sustainability for bourbon production in Kentucky
Clermont, Kentucky, June 5, 2024 – Suntory Global Spirits, a world leader in premium spirits, and Bernheim Forest, a 16,142-acre privately held natural resource just south of Louisville, Kentucky, have announced a renewed commitment to their shared dedication to water conservation through the Natural Water Sanctuary Alliance.
Through this extended partnership, Suntory Global Spirits will commit up to $100,000 each year over the next five years, to help preserve Bernheim's extensive 90 miles of waterways and the staggering 21+ billion gallons of rainwater that falls on the forest annually.
“We recognize the significance of water, not only as a fundamental component of bourbon production, but as the lifeblood of the entire ecosystem,” said Nathan Crosley, General Manager, James B. Beam Distilling Co. Operations at Suntory Global Spirits and Board Member of Bernheim Forest & Arboretum. “Kentucky is a huge part of our business and the homeplace for Jim Beam, the world’s number one bourbon, and we’re so thrilled to continue working with our friends at Bernheim Forest on building nature-based solutions for the next generation of bourbon.”
The alliance, first formed in 2018, successfully developed a natural water sanctuary on Bernheim grounds, immediately adjacent to Suntory Global Spirits’ James B. Beam Distilling Co. distillery in Clermont, Kentucky. In addition to continuing ongoing watershed protection efforts, the Alliance extension will work to preserve and promote biodiversity across the wider Kentucky Bourbon Trail environment through the protection and stewardship of native forests, enhancement of native plant populations and strategic improvement of wildlife habitats. Biological surveys, invasive species management and the establishment of various habitats are among the specific tactics for the next five years.
The alliance will also enhance environmental and water cycle education for visitors, employees, and members of the Kentucky community. Hands-on activities, such as discovery stations with trained naturalists, guided walks highlighting watershed and biodiversity protection, and tailored programs delivered to school groups, will help engage the community in critical conservation efforts.
"This Alliance presents an opportunity to integrate discussions about protecting natural waters into broader conversations, engaging communities locally and regionally," said Dr. Mark Wourms, President & CEO of Bernheim Forest, who highlights the increased recognition of the Natural Water Sanctuary Alliance, maximized by Bernheim’s scientific expertise and the James B. Beam Distilling Co.’s brand recognition.
Andrew Berry, Bernheim's Director of Conservation, underscored the critical role of water within our local ecosystem, saying, "Water is an essential component of healthy ecosystems. Our partnership with Suntory Global Spirits furthers Bernheim’s commitment to supporting clean water for wildlife, recreation and downstream communities."
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About Bernheim Forest and Arboretum
Bernheim’s mission is to connect people with nature. Spanning 16,140 acres, it stands as the largest privately held contiguous forest block in the eastern United States committed to conservation and education. Established in 1929 by bourbon maker Isaac Wolfe Bernheim as a gift to the people of Kentucky, Bernheim offers fun and educational programs, diverse tree collections, a renowned art collection, 40 miles of hiking trails, and varied landscapes, accessible every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. A suggested donation of $15 per car is recommended for non-members. For more information about Bernheim, please visit https://bernheim.org/.
About Suntory Global Spirits
As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker's Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com and www.drinksmart.com.
