By Colin Cooney
As Trout Unlimited continues the campaign opposing the proposed copper mine that threatens Montana’s famed Smith River, companies from around the country are stepping up to help. Recently, RepYourWater, a Colorado based business dedicated to providing uniquely designed, top quality gear for anglers and hunters, and Upslope Brewing, a brewery out of Boulder Colorado, have joined the fight opposing this irresponsible project.
When you buy an Upslope variety pack in Montana, be on the lookout for a “Save the Smith” and a Montana Rep Your Water sticker. These companies are helping spread the word around Montana that a mine at the head waters of the Smith is bad for Montana.
When asked why they decided to join the fight, co-founder of Rep Your Water Garrison Doctor said, “We at RepYourWater feel this is not just a Montana issue, but something that the national fly fishing community needs to rally behind right now.”
This is not the first time RepYourWater or Upslope has shown their dedication to conservation. Rep Your Water have partnered with Colorado TU, Connecticut Council of TU, New Mexico Council of TU, Wild Steelhead Coalition, Wyoming TU, Pennsylvania Council of TU, the Southeast Conservation Project of TU and TU of Canada. They donate a portion of each of their sales, from each individual state, to those TU chapters and councils.
Upslope has been running the 1% for Rivers campaign since 2011. Craft beer fans and river enthusiasts alike have been benefitting coldwater fisheries and watersheds through their 1% for Rivers campaign. One percent of all Craft Lager can sales is donated to local Trout Unlimited chapters in Colorado, Arizona, Montana, Texas and Wyoming. It is because of business partners like RepYourWater and Upslope Brewing that Trout Unlimited is able to do the important work that we do.