Key Takeaways
- Brewers in the western United States are facing challenges due to the region's worst drought in 1,200 years.
- Climate change is contributing to water source instability, impacting the brewing process.
- Maintaining water chemical consistency is crucial for breweries, especially in drought-affected areas.
The Impact of Climate Change on Brewing
A recent report by Nature Climate Change highlighted the severity of the drought in the western United States, with the region experiencing its worst dry spell in over a millennium. This prolonged drought, covering 95 percent of the West, is causing significant concerns for brewers across states like Colorado, Wyoming, and California.
Water Source Instability and Brewing
Sean McClurg, lead brewer at Roadhouse Brewing in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, notes the challenges posed by the dwindling water supply in the region. Changes in snowmelt patterns and rainfall can alter the chemical composition of water sources, affecting the brewing process. Municipal authorities may need to adjust water blends due to fluctuations, leading to variations in mineral content that impact beer quality.
Adapting to Water Supply Variability
Mitch Steele, former Anheuser-Busch assistant brewmaster, emphasizes the importance of adapting to water source variability in brewing. In regions like Southern California, where water blends from sources like the Colorado River and Sierra Nevada snowpack are used, extreme drought conditions can result in mineral fluctuations. Breweries must invest in systems like reverse osmosis to maintain water chemical consistency for brewing.
Maintaining Water Chemical Consistency
The Brewers Association's supply chain subcommittee is advocating for proactive monitoring of water chemistry among brewers. With climate change exacerbating water source instability, maintaining consistent water quality is crucial for ensuring the integrity of beer production. By building communication and investing in the right technologies, breweries can mitigate the impact of fluctuating water sources on their brewing processes.
As brewers navigate the challenges posed by climate change-induced droughts, the industry must prioritize sustainable water management practices to safeguard the future of beer production. By staying informed, adaptable, and proactive, breweries can continue to create high-quality brews despite the evolving environmental landscape.