Improving biodiversity and sustainable agriculture on hops farm
Just before the recent COVID lockdown in NSW, 22 enthusiastic team members from Landcare Australia, 4 Pines Brewing Co., Ryefield Hops Farm and the Far South Coast Landcare Association recently came together for a planting day resulting in 1,000 native plants getting into the ground as part of a project to enhance sustainable agriculture outcomes in the brewer’s supply chain.
Irrigation for farming at Ryefield Hops in NSW’s Bega Valley comes from an on-site creek. Planting 1,000 native plants now and another 2,000 in mid-2022, including 20 different local indigenous species to the area along the creekline will help to retain soil moisture and prevent further erosion.
This will improve water quality and the overall storage of water to ensure the crop has a sufficient water supply, especially during drier conditions. As the plants grow, they will contribute to improving landscape connectivity, the farm’s biodiversity and the farm’s long term sustainability.
As part of their partnership with 4 Pines, Landcare Australia is delivering this on-ground agriculture project, marking the launch of a commitment 4 Pines is making to 1% for the Planet.
1% for the Planet is a global organisation that exists to ensure the planet and future generations thrive. As a member of 1% for the Planet, 4 Pines is donating 1% of its revenue from three of its beers (Pale Ale, Pacific Ale & Extra Refreshing Ale) to Landcare Australia and two other not-for-profit organisations.
4 Pines is one of only two certified B-Corp Brewers in Australia. Certified B Corporations are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and accountability to balance profit and purpose.
“Malt and hops are integral to the beer we brew; one bad season can be detrimental to growing conditions which can have a knock-on effect on our end. By supporting our growers through Landcare Australia, we will be helping to ensure that our key supply partners’ livelihood is secure, their soil is healthy and that our beer will continue to taste great,” says Chris Willcock, 4 Pines Chief Brewer.
“We are looking forward to seeing what long term impact this project has on wider communities, our suppliers and the environment. And thanks to everyone who has enjoyed a 4 Pines Pacific Ale, Pale Ale and Extra Refreshing Ale. It is phenomenal seeing the positive impact our three 1% for the Planet beers can create. 1% adds up,” Todd Atkinson, 4 Pines CCO, says.
