Mad River Brewing Company (MRBC) has been providing our Blue Lake Community with award winning beers at their tap room and beer garden since 1989. The Yurok Tribe purchased MRBC in November 2019 making it one of the first breweries to be tribally owned in the U.S. We recently spoke with Chief Operating Officer, Linda Cooley, regarding some of the changes happening at the brewery:
What is your responsibility as COO of MRBC?
Our overall vision for not just the tap room, but also for the brewing and distribution of our award winning beer. We're looking into the future and planning for expansion, growth and new opportunities.
Who are the other members of the management team?
Kelly Elliot, CFO; David Cook, Head Brewer; Trevor Elliot, Executive Chef; Carly Paronelli, Lead Bartender.
What is the significance of the new logo? Will it be on all MRBC products and apparel?
The new logo reflects the tribal ownership with the "Sturgeon Design". We want to have the same identifiable feel of the company with a cleaner, updated version to reflect the future. We will be changing all of our labels and apparel to incorporate the new logo.
What are the changes and innovations that lie ahead for MRBC?
We are innovating the current tap room with a new food menu and small batch brews. We will have special events and continue Pints for Non-Profits when we can. Our Mug Club will continue with possibly some exciting changes. We have updated the tap room and will continue through the Covid time to make updates for when we are able to reopen fully. We will be announcing future exciting opportunities on the distribution side when we finalize them. New labels and new additions to our beer line will be happening soon.
What are MRBC's ideas for community involvement in the future?
We had many... Covid really put a kink in our plans. Evaluating what we can do with the new regulations, supporting local groups and events while also supporting Tribal programs.
Any additional comments you would like to share?
We are all so excited about the changes we have made with more on the horizon! Blue Lake and Humboldt County have been so supportive. We are thankful and hopeful for moving forward successfully.
Mad River Brewing Company is located at 195 Taylor Way in Blue Lake.
Phone #: 668-4151
Visit their website: http://madriverbrewing.com
Visit their Facebook page: https://facebook.com/madriverbrewing
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