Archives: Press Releases

Donates 10,000 pairs of socks across hospitals in Vermont

 Northfield, VT. (April 22, 2020) – As the pandemic continues, demands on healthcare professionals are also on the rise. This week, Darn Tough Vermont is helping to provide additional comfort within their own medical community by donating 10,000 pairs of socks to hospitals across the Green Mountain State.

“We manufacture one thing – socks,” explains Ric Cabot, President and CEO of Darn Tough Vermont. “We’re honored to contribute what we uniquely can, and show our appreciation to someof the toughest Vermonters. We’re all in this together.”

“Our health heroes are on the front lines — and on their feet — all day, every day,” says Judy Peterson, president and chief operating officer for UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice. “That’s why Darn Tough’s gift of cozy Vermont-made socks is so greatly appreciated, particularly right now. They remind us that we are indeed Vermont Strong! From a grateful workforce, thanks to everyone at Darn Tough for the work you do and for your remarkable generosity.”

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About Darn Tough Vermont:

Darn Tough Vermont is an American manufacturer of premium, all-weather outdoor and lifestyle socks backed up by the industry’s only lifetime guarantee. The company offers both Specialty and Tactical product lines. Darn Tough Vermont’s Specialty line of socks includes Hike, Lifestyle, Snow, Run, Athletic, Work, Hunt and Juniors’ styles.

Darn Tough’s product is distinguished from industry competitors by 100 percent USA manufacturing; exceptional comfort, durability and fit; True-Seamless™ technology; and an exclusive blend of either ultra-fine, premium Merino wool or Coolmax®/Thermolite®. Founded by Ric Cabot in 2004, a third-generation sock maker, Darn Tough Vermont operates out of Cabot Hosiery Mills. For more information about Darn Tough Vermont socks, please visit: www.DarnTough.com.

From the beginning, being a force for good has been a main driver for decision making at Klean Kanteen. Today, the family and employee-owned company is proud to announce a partnership with Climate Neutral to achieve a carbon neutral footprint as of February 2020. Using an independent and rigorous certification program, Climate Neutral verifies a company has achieved net-zero carbon emissions for the entirety of their greenhouse gas footprint through a combination of emissions reductions and offsets.

“As business owners, we recognize the effect producing and shipping goods can have on the climate and have been working to measure and reduce our carbon footprint since early 2009,” said Co-owners and brother sister team Jeff Cresswell and Michelle Kalberer. “Together with Climate Neutral, we have publicly measured, reduced and offset our carbon emissions because it’s the right thing to do for current and future generations. We are now 100% carbon neutral in our manufacturing and delivery of products worldwide.”

Currently, raw material production, manufacturing and transportation are Klean Kanteen’s biggest emissions sources. Reduction efforts impacting these emissions include engaging factory partners to increase use of renewable energy, reducing packing material use and increasing recycled content in packaging.

In addition to emissions reduction, Klean Kanteen purchases offsets to help with immediate change while they are working towards reductions that require more time. All offset investments meet the criteria for quality offsets, including real, permanent, quantifiable, verifiable, enforceable, additional and verified by an independent, third-party.

Going forward, all Klean Kanteen products will have a Certified Climate Neutral logo to empower socially conscious purchasing.

Learn more about Klean Kanteen’s partnership with Climate Neutral here.

About Klean Kanteen
A leader in BPA-free, stainless steel drinkware and food transport, Klean Kanteen is family and employee owned and operated, with distribution in 40-plus countries worldwide. With environmental stewardship and fair labor central to the company’s philosophy, Klean Kanteen is in business for good. Since 2008, Klean has donated over $3 million to environmental organizations working towards positive change through 1% for the Planet. From non-profit partnerships to grassroots events, Klean works closely with values-aligned companies and organizations to support efforts toward health, the reduction of single-use plastic, and environmental education and awareness. In 2012, Klean Kanteen proudly became a B Corporation, certified by the nonprofit B Lab to meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency. For more information, please visit www.kleankanteen.com.

Burley, a leading recreational transport gear company, known best for its kid trailers, is excited to announce its introduction into the child bike seat category with the launch of the Dash line.

The Dash product line marks Burley’s long anticipated entry into the child bike seat category. A natural fit for the brand, child bike seats round out Burley’s Family Line to help more fully meet the needs of every cycling family. “We’ve been making child trailers for over 40 years now and see ourselves as experts in child transportation by bike. Adding a child bike seat is a natural extension for us and one that we are thrilled to bring to market. The Dash bike seats were created with a range of customers and uses in mind, from first time family haulers, to those committed to two wheels, the Dash offers an easy solution to ride with their kid,” says Allison Straub, president of Burley. “As we continue to navigate the current situation, we are seeing a surge of families seeking ways to safely and easily get outside with their kids and feel this product couldn’t be launching at a better time. We hope this new line helps families find safe moments of fun and adventure.”

The Dash line features three rear child bike seat models: Dash RM (Rack Mount), Dash FM (Frame Mount), and Dash X FM (Reclining Frame Mount). Offering a lightweight, easy to attach, affordable option for families on the go, Burley’s child bike seats are great for trips around the block or all-day family adventures. The Dash RM conveniently adapts to your existing rack setup, while the Dash FM and Dash X FM turn virtually any bike into a fun, family-hauler. Enjoy extra comfort with the Dash X FM’s adjustable 20 degree recline. Each model comes in black/grey while the Dash RM introduces a second colorway, cream/green.

“When designing the Dash line, we kept our ethos of durability, safety, and child comfort in mind every step of the way to build a versatile family of products that were accessible and convenient solutions to enable even more consumers to get outside and ride with their families.  Whether you have a bike with a rear rack, no rack, or even some cargo bikes, this product family offers multiple mounting options to meet the needs of your family,” says Katie Thompson, product development and manufacturing manager at Burley.

Each model comes equipped with:
    – Removable and hand-washable seat and harness padding for easy cleaning
    – Adjustable 5-point harness system to accommodate growing children up to 40 lbs
    – Rear storage compartment for smaller items
    – Lightweight design for an easier ride
    – Arm rests for rider comfort
    – Adjustable footrests easily snap into four positions, and include integrated security straps
    – Water resistant seat padding
    – Integrated rear reflector for added visibility
    – Safety strap for added security

Designed with safety, comfort for your child, and convenience in mind, Burley’s Dash product line offers families an easy option to quickly and safely adventure in an affordable, small footprint that maximizes their time on the bike. To learn more about the new Burley Dash line visit burley.com or stop in at your local bicycle retailer near you. The Dash is available for sale in the U.S. and Canada.

For more information on Burley, visit burley.com.

ABOUT BURLEY DESIGN

Burley is a family owned company committed to building the future generation of riders, adventures, and explorers. A leader in transport gear, Burley’s mission is to Enable Adventure through safe, durable, and thoughtful design. 

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Rumpl, the Portland-based leader in technical blankets, has successfully achieved Climate Neutral Certified status by measuring its greenhouse gas emissions footprint, purchasing carbon credits to offset that footprint and implementing plans to continue reducing emissions. Taking these direct actions against climate change qualifies Rumpl to display the Climate Neutral Certified label in its branding and marketing for the next year before re-certifying.

As part of its sustainable business initiative in addition to Climate Neutral Certification, Rumpl developed state-of-the-art insulation technology for its blankets that turns 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles into synthetic insulation and polyester. Through this process, the brand will have reclaimed over 5 million plastic bottles by the end of 2020. Rumpl has also been an active member of 1% for the Planet since 2017, supporting causes like The National Parks Foundation and The Raincoast Conservation Foundation.

“Running a sustainable company, both with the environment and long-term business growth in mind, is a foundational value for Rumpl. We are constantly challenging ourselves to innovate new, sustainable solutions for developing and manufacturing products, distributing to our customers, and keeping the lights on at our Portland headquarters. Earning this recognition from Climate Neutral is a big step for us, and we’re proud of the work we’ve done as well as the steps we will continue to make toward a sustainable future,” says Rumpl founder and CEO Wylie Robinson. “That said, we are constantly balancing the needs of the present and the long view of the future when navigating this difficult time with the COVID-19 pandemic. Right now, the pandemic is a top priority for all of us. But, by taking action to reduce our carbon footprint and follow through on our certification, we also want to show that we are committed to the climate fight now and for the long haul.”

Every company displaying the Climate Neutral Certified label has taken the same steps to address climate pollution. The process involves first measuring all of the carbon emissions from making and delivering a company’s products or services. Companies must then follow a set of standards for buying verified carbon credits to offset their entire footprint. Carbon credits direct investment into reducing and capturing carbon dioxide. Rumpl banded together with other Climate Neutral Certified companies to combine credits towards projects that focus on forestry initiatives and landfill mitigation.

All Climate Neutral Certified companies also commit to a reduction action plan to cut future emissions. This year, Rumpl will reduce its per employee energy usage by 15% and remove the use of polyester mailers in shipping fulfillment by the end of 2020. By the end of 2023, 99% of product materials will be post-consumer recycled or made from natural organic fibers.

“Climate Neutral Certified companies show the world that immediate action on climate change is possible and essential,” says Austin Whitman, CEO of Climate Neutral. “We’ve certified our first group of companies this April and believe this is the beginning of a powerful movement among consumers and companies. Even at this difficult time, our newly certified brands are leading the way by recognizing that climate change must be solved. They believe that all companies should take immediate voluntary action to zero out their entire carbon footprint, and are engaging their consumers around this important issue like never before.”

Rumpl has joined 139 other Climate Neutral Certified brands. Learn more about Climate Neutral and browse all of the certified brands at climateneutral.org.

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ABOUT RUMPL: Based in Portland, Oregon, Rumpl makes Blankets for Everywhere. Utilizing material technologies commonly found in activewear and outdoor gear, Rumpl aims to modernize the everyday blanket. Rumpl’s high-quality, versatile blankets keep you comfortable no matter where you are. The materials have been tested and proven in harsh environments, yet specifically selected for comfort and durability. Rumpl believes the blanket you use every day deserves the same attention to detail as a sleeping bag you might use ten times a year. The end result is a premium and versatile blanket that can be used anywhere you go… or when you don’t go anywhere.https://www.rumpl.com.

ABOUT CLIMATE NEUTRAL: Climate Neutral is a non-profit organization creating the new trusted consumer standard for corporate climate action. The Climate Neutral Certified label empowers consumers to consciously support companies that measure their entire carbon footprint, offset it in its entirety, and implement strategies to reduce it moving forward. Climate Neutral’s standardized process makes it easier for companies to estimate their greenhouse gas footprint, identify credible carbon offsets, and prioritize measures to reduce their emissions. To learn more about Climate Neutral, visit climateneutral.org.

PGA TOUR Champion Billy Horschel Supports Young Adults With Cancer and MS through First Descents

• Horschel gives $10,000 for adventure programs
• Donation made in partnership with Velocity Global

Professional golfer and PGA TOUR star Billy Horschel donated $10,000 to First Descents to support innovative adventure-based programming for young adults coping with cancer and multiple-sclerosis. In partnership with his sponsor Velocity Global, Mr. Horschel and his family have pledged a leadership gift to support cancer and MS patients living in Florida and Colorado.

Founded in 2001, First Descents provides life-changing outdoor adventures for young adults impacted by cancer, MS, and other serious health conditions. They host free adventure programs nationwide, giving thousands of patients the opportunity to kayak, climb, and surf beyond their diagnosis while connecting with peers with shared circumstances. 

“This isolating time amidst the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacts young adults affected by cancer and other serious health conditions. In addition to immune-related precautions, research shows that this community has an increased risk of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and even suicide,” shares Ryan O’Donoghue, Executive Director at First Descents. “Billy and Brittany’s generous gift is a symbol of hope as we ask our survivors to ‘standby for adventure.’ This gift helps ensure those adventures are ready when it’s safe to gather again.”

A five-time PGA TOUR winner and 2014 FedExCup Champion, Mr. Horschel is sponsored by Velocity Global – an international PEO firm with operations in 185 countries. Velocity Global is a generous corporate partner of First Descents, having facilitated and funded the launch of adventure programs for young adults coping with multiple sclerosis in 2018.

“When we put our logo on Billy’s shirt, we chose the man as much as the player; that couldn’t be more evident than in this donation to First Descents, a mission we all passionately support,” said Ben Wright, Velocity Global founder and CEO. “Billy and Brittany inspired an outpouring of generosity as the PGA TOUR paused with the rest of the world. Billy is spending his time making our communities better while he waits for golf to return.”

“Brittany and I believe that healing from a serious illness like cancer or MS, and long-term implications of depression and addiction, require innovative solutions like the free adventure programs of First Descents,” said Horschel. “We are thrilled that Velocity Global introduced us to this wonderful cause. Our family loves spending time outside, especially in Florida and the mountains of Colorado, and we look forward to volunteering on a future trip to experience the healing power of adventure firsthand!”

ABOUT VELOCITY GLOBAL

Velocity Global is the leading provider of global employment solutions that has reinvented the way companies expand overseas. With unrivaled expertise in over 185 countries, Velocity Global delivers end-to-end services and best-in-class support to help companies confidently navigate the entire lifecycle of international business. To ensure a compliant, efficient, and flexible international expansion, Velocity Global provides a comprehensive suite of global services that includes International PEO, Entity Setup and Support, Global Talent Acquisition, Immigration, and Consulting.

ABOUT FIRST DESCENTS

First Descents (FD) is the global leader in adventure-based healing. Through outdoor adventure, community building, and skills development, FD improves the health and quality of life for young adults impacted by cancer and other serious health conditions.

Oboz Footwear, the True to the Trail® outdoor footwear company headquartered in Bozeman, is celebrating Earth Day and Arbor Day with its “Throw Some Shade” initiative.  Through Sunday, April 26, visitors to Oboz.com can donate a tree in a friend’s name for free.

“On Earth Day and Arbor Day we generally host tree plantings with our dealers and in our community, but this year is different,” said Rich Hohne, Oboz Director of Marketing.  “With Throw Some Shade we can maintain social distancing while promoting and supporting our tree planting projects.”

Trees donated through the initiative will be planted on behalf of the donors in Oboz’s Tabora Forest Garden Project in Tanzania, Africa.  The project is made possible by Oboz’s partnership with Trees for the Future (www.trees.org).  Trees for the Future has helped Oboz plant a tree for every pair of boots or shoes it has sold since the brand’s launch in 2007.  To date, Oboz has planted over 3 million trees.

Trees for the Future works with farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa to sustainably plant thousands of trees and crops. Along with offering shade, trees absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. Planting trees also revitalizes degraded lands and brings nutrients back to the soil so farmers can grow a variety of fruits and vegetables that will provide food security and increased income.

To donate a tree and Throw Some Shade at a friend, visit www.obozfootwear.com/throw-shade.

To learn more about and keep up to date on the Tabora Forest Garden Project visit www.obozfootwear.com/tabora-project.

About Oboz Footwear
Founded in 2007, Oboz Footwear builds ‘True to the Trail®’ outdoor footwear inspired by the vast 18 million-acre Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem surrounding the company’s Bozeman, Montana home. This rugged wilderness inspires Oboz to build shoes and boots that deliver unmatched fit, unrivaled feel and exceptional performance on any trail, anywhere. Oboz plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold. For more information, visit https://www.obozfootwear.com.

New Belgium Brewing announced today that their flagship brand, Fat Tire, will partner with climate action non-profit Protect Our Winters (POW) to support The Outdoor State, a campaign catalyzing the outdoor community to vote in the 2020 election. This year’s election marks a critical moment for the health of the planet and its people, and Fat Tire is joining forces with POW to unite the more than 50 million Americans who identify as passionate outdoor users and call upon them to pledge to vote. As climate change threatens our environment, our access to the outdoors, and the resources necessary to produce great beer, it is more important than ever to vote for candidates who will act in support of the planet.

Since the inception of Fat Tire in 1991, New Belgium Brewing has worked to cut its environmental impact by becoming the first wind-powered brewery, establishing the first carbon footprint study for beer, and producing electricity onsite through solar and biogas technology. While New Belgium has invested heavily in reducing its own environmental impact, the company recognizes that individual efforts alone are not enough to address the challenges at hand. Deepening the longstanding partnership between New Belgium and POW during this critical time will help to draw broader attention to these much-needed environmental protections and underline the important role this election plays in securing our future.

Along with brand ambassadors, Fat Tire will lend its voice and resources to help spread The Outdoor State message of unity and inclusion to drive voter commitment in upcoming elections. “Fat Tire was born into a strong outdoor adventure scene. For nearly 30 years, we’ve invested in our communities and the environment,” said New Belgium Brewing Brand Manager, Nora McCombs. “We’re honored to grow our support for this cause we care so deeply about, and to promote the importance of voting for the planet in local, regional, and national elections. The 50^th anniversary of Earth Day reinforces the significance of POW’s campaign.”

“We are thrilled to have Fat Tire helping to inspire their community to join the Outdoor State and commit to standing up for their outdoor playgrounds. As an iconic brand, so well-known among outdoor enthusiasts, Fat Tire’s ability to inspire the outdoor community to action will undoubtedly help us get outdoor lovers of all stripes to the polls,” said POW’s Communication Manager Sam Killgore.

To make a commitment to stand up for your playground this election, join The Outdoor State by visiting www.newbelgium.com/fattire or https://p2a.co/MjKglDC.

About Fat Tire

Fat Tire Amber Ale was first introduced by New Belgium Brewing in 1991 as an award-winning Colorado homebrew named in honor of a bicycling trip through Belgium. The easy drinking ale created an immediate sensation with skiers, climbers, cyclists and outdoor adventurers. The Fat Tire brand was refreshed in 2019, with a new aesthetic and the addition of live yeast dosing in the canning and bottling process to enhance freshness.  Proudly supporting 1% for the planet, Fat Tire remains committed to ensuring the future of our only home.  Drink Fat Tire and give back. 

About New Belgium Brewing

New Belgium Brewing is recognized as a leader in sustainability and social responsibility. Founded in 1991 in Fort Collins, Colorado, the company expanded to Asheville, North Carolina in 2016 and Denver, Colorado in 2018 and is now the 4^th largest craft brewery in the U.S. Dedicated to proving that business can be a force for good, New Belgium is a Certified B Corp and was the first brewery to join 1% for the Planet. The brewery has donated over $26 million to charitable causes since 1991. New Belgium is famous for its flagship beer, Fat Tire Amber Ale, along with year-round favorites like Voodoo Ranger IPA, Mural Agua Fresca Cerveza, and La Folie Sour Brown Ale; as well as an award-winning wood-aged sour program and innovative limited release beers. To learn more about the full product lineup and New Belgium’s Human Powered Business model, visit NewBelgium.com.

About Protect Our Winters
Protect Our Winters is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps passionate outdoor people protect the places and lifestyles they love from climate change. Founded in 2007 by professional snowboarder Jeremy Jones, POW is a community of athletes, scientists, creatives and business leaders advancing non-partisan policies that protect our world today and for future generations.

Duck Camp, the cast-and-blast brand devoted to creating premium outdoor gear that will withstand the test of time in the field, delivers warm-weather performance and protection in its 2020 seasonal fishing collection, consisting of breathable button-up shirts, technical shorts and lightweight pants, among other pieces. Inspired equally by bonefishing in the Caribbean and chasing monster trout, Duck Camp, the revered Austin, Texas-based apparel-maker, designed its first-ever Spring Fishing Line to perform on the water and on the town.

“Whether on the bow of a boat, on the banks of a skinny trout stream or fighting fish at your local bass pond, Duck Camp’s performance-fishing apparel is built specifically for spending spring and summer days on the water,” says Sim Whatley, founder of Duck Camp. “We have heard from our fans who want benefits like UPF protection and lightweight, quick-drying materials in our apparel line, and we’ve answered with the Spring 2020 collection.”

The Spring Fishing Line consists of thoughtfully designed products boasting maximum breathability, UPF sun protection and comfort—styled to look good on the water and off. Bi-swing venting in the Hooksetter Shirts and articulated knees in the Drifter Pants will keep Duck Camp’s customers dry and cool whether they are searching for riffles on a trout stream, scanning for redfish from the bow of a skiff or barefoot-fishing at the local bass pond. Lightweight, comfortable and technical fabrics, like Nylon Supplex, Bamboo and two-way stretch fabrics, make this a performance-built collection boasting a UPF40+ rating. Vivid, naturally inspired colorways give the Spring Fishing Line a humble, understated style that can go from the fishing hole to happy hour without skipping a beat.

The Hooksetter Shirts come in long-sleeve (MSRP: $89) and short-sleeve (MSRP: $79) cuts in solid colors, like Largemouth Green, and plaid prints, like Red Drum Plaid. With a UPF rating of 40+, the Hooksetter will protect from the sun while being quick-drying and breathable thanks to its Nylon Supplex fabric. With features like a clip for forceps, a hidden microfiber cloth for sunglasses, magnetic-closure pockets with a hidden zipper and oversized pockets for small fly box or phone, Duck Camp’s Hooksetter Shirts personify performance-fishing apparel.

If the Hooksetter Shirt is the premium top for anglers, the Drifter Pants (MSRP: $89) make the perfect full-system kit. These pants are also rated UPF40+ while being quick-dry, lightweight and very breathable thanks to their two-way stretch Nylon Taslan fabric. Large back pockets with magnetic closures keep gear from floating downstream and a gusseted crotch provides extra comfort throughout the day. Drifter Shorts (MSRP: $69) offer the same sun protection, breathability, moisture wicking and two-way stretch comfort attributes as the full-length pants.

Rounding out Duck Camp’s Spring Fishing Line are the coveted Lightweight Bamboo Crews and Bamboo Hoodies (MSRP: $49 for solid colors; MSRP: $54 for camo prints), mesh-lined Scout Shorts (MSRP: $49) in five-inch and seven-inch inseams made for scouting, swimming, working out or lounging, and a brand-new mix of freshly designed t-shirts and hats.

The Spring Fishing Line by Duck Camp is available online at www.duckcamp.com starting April 22, 2020. For more information, please visit https://duckcamp.com/pages/spring-2020.

For more information, please direct all media inquiries to Associate PR Director Greg Fitzsimmons at: greg.fitzsimmons@rygr.us.

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About Duck Camp: Austin, Texas-based Duck Camp makes premium outdoor goods for every cast and every blast. Specializing in hunting and fishing apparel that will withstand the test of time in the field, on the bow of a boat or out on the town, Duck Camp helps customers #FindYourCamp. www.duckcamp.com  

Current events have provided a stark reminder of how easy it is to take for granted the things we value most. Natural areas from Florida to Alaska are under threat, and on the 50^th anniversary of Earth Day, Orvis calls on its community to come together to protect habitat and local economies in two of the world’s most iconic wild places: Bristol Bay, Alaska and the Everglades in Florida. Additionally, the Vermont-based, family-owned outdoor retailer has released its 2019 Impact Report, highlighting the work and contributions the brand, and its patrons, made to protect wild places, increase participation in fly fishing and improve canine well-being throughout the year. In 2019, Orvis supported 173 non-profit organizations, raised and donated $466,908 — through its 5% for Nature initiative and Matching Grant Fund — and introduced 15,000 people to fly fishing through its free Fly Fishing 101 programs.

Read the Orvis 2019 Impact Report here: https://www.orvis.com/impactreport

“As a start-up in the 1850s, Orvis was founded on the idea of inspiring adventure, wonder and deep connection to the outdoors. 160 years later, our mission is the same,” says Orvis COO Simon Perkins. “When people are able to get outside and experience the natural world, we believe they are happier, healthier, and more likely to work to protect it. We have a lot to be proud of this year, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of our customers, the expertise of our partners, and the passion held by both.”

Protection and Restoration of Bristol Bay and the Everglades

Though they are separated by more than 4,000 miles, Bristol Bay, Alaska, and South Florida’s Everglades ecosystem are under increasing pressure from development and water pollution. In Bristol Bay, the proposed Pebble Mine, which has met widespread local and national opposition for more than a decade, has the potential to devastate the largest sockeye salmon fishery on Earth.

Orvis requests those interested in preserving the economy and biodiversity reliant on a healthy Bristol Bay fishery to submit a comment to the Federal Government today at www.savebristolbay.org/take-action.

Action is also needed today to correct the destructive results of freshwater pollution in the Everglades region of South Florida, where discharged water from Lake Okeechobee has fundamentally altered the ecosystem’s ability to survive, decimating seagrass, oyster and fish populations. In addition to the rich intrinsic value of this once-vibrant ecosystem, recreation and tourism tied to the health of the Everglades supports 1.3 million jobs and contributes $109 billion annually to Florida’s economy.

Orvis asks those interested in protecting more than 70 threatened and endangered species that call the Everglades home to submit comments to legislators at https://www.evergladeseconomy.org/take-action.

5% for Nature and Customer Matching Grant Fund

Orvis launched the 5% for Nature program in 1987, committing five percent of its pre-tax profits to conservation projects over the ensuing 32 years. Every year, these funds are used to support campaigns and non-profit organizations through Orvis’ grant programs, which funded 173 non-profit organizations in 2019. Since the program’s inception, Orvis has raised and donated over $20M for conservation.

Introduced in 1991, the Orvis Customer Matching Grant Fund multiplies the impact of 5% for Nature by unlocking the power of the Orvis community in providing 1:1 matching funds for conservation and other projects. In 2019, partners benefiting from more than $240,000 in funding included The Everglades Foundation, Trout Unlimited Alaska, and Petfinder Foundation. These donations helped to protect the Everglades, fight the construction of the proposed Pebble Mine in Alaska’s Bristol Bay, improve river ecosystems, and protect adoptable pets from unnecessary euthanization.

Breaking barriers in fly fishing

Orvis is also leading the industry in breaking down gender and racial barriers in fly fishing, welcoming people to the sport and educating beginners on the water. In 2019 alone, Orvis introduced 15,000 new anglers to the sport through its free Fly Fishing 101 courses, hosted at Orvis retail stores acoss the country. The 50/50 On the Water program, which aims to inspire and enable women to discover fly fishing, also launched a family-friendly 50/50 film tour and hosted several women’s specific fly-fishing schools, including a women’s fishing experience at El Pescador Lodge in Belize.

Tracy Nguyen-Chung, founder of Brown Folks Fishing (BFF), a national, angler-led initiative that cultivates access, conservation efforts, and community for black, indigenous, and people of color in the sport of fishing, earned the 2019 Orvis Breaking Barriers Award. Introduced in 2015, the annual award recognizes an individual who has gone above and beyond to bring new participants into angling by breaking down barriers and introducing new audiences to fly fishing.

For 2020, Orvis has renewed partnerships with Save Bristol Bay, Everglades Foundation and Petfinder Foundation, and will continue to support additional non-profit organizations and educational programs throughout the year. To read the full 2019 Impact Report, please visit https://www.orvis.com/impactreport, and to learn more about Orvis’s conservation efforts, please visit https://www.orvis.com/conservation. 

About The Orvis Company: Founded in 1856, we believe the most meaningful experiences are created by sharing the love of nature and being inspired by its endless possibilities. Orvis pioneered the mail order industry in the United States, operates more than 80 retail stores in the U.S and the U.K., and maintains a network of over 400 dealers worldwide as a trusted source of discovery and adventure in the natural world. We promise to open the door to extraordinary outdoor experiences, and to protect nature by committing 5% of our pretax profits each year to conservation efforts worldwide. www.orvis.com