Guest: Nels Wroe, Founder of Dryland Distilling

Overview:
In this episode, Joni Kindwall-Moore sits down with Nels Wroe of Dryland Distilling to discuss his unique journey from starting a craft distilling business to pioneering innovative, regenerative agricultural practices in the production of spirits. Wroe shares insights into the challenges and rewards of creating a localized, regenerative supply chain that supports the environment and community.

Key Points Discussed:

• Origins and Philosophy: Nels Wroe details his path from a small magazine project on craft distillers to founding Dryland Distilling, driven by a desire to create spirits that truly represent the American West using locally sourced, regenerative ingredients.
• Challenges of Local Sourcing: Wroe discusses the difficulties faced by craft distillers in sourcing local ingredients and how Dryland Distilling navigates these challenges to produce authentic, high-quality spirits.
• Impact on Local Food Systems: The conversation highlights the importance of spirits and beer in the local food system, focusing on how Dryland Distilling's efforts contribute to a sustainable model that uses regenerative farming practices.
• Innovations in Regenerative Agriculture: Wroe elaborates on the strategies employed by Dryland Distilling to foster regenerative agricultural practices among local grain producers, emphasizing the environmental and economic benefits of these methods.
• The Future of Craft Distilling: Nels Wroe shares his vision for the future, which involves expanding the reach of regenerative practices beyond local boundaries and creating an educational platform for consumers and other producers in the craft distilling industry.

Call to Action:

• Visit Dryland Distilling's website (drylanddistillers.com) to learn more about their unique spirits and the story behind each bottle.
• Engage with the distillery on social media to follow their journey and support regenerative practices in the spirits industry.

Closing Thought: This episode serves as a profound reminder of the potential impact small businesses can have on both local economies and environmental sustainability. Nels Wroe's dedication to regenerative practices offers a blueprint for others in the industry, proving that ethical considerations and business success can go hand in hand.

Regenerative by Design is hosted by Snacktivist. Snacktivist is a food innovation company transforming nutrition with climate-smart crops, regenerative, and data-connected supply chains. We specialize in novel product development, sustainable ingredient sourcing—from “genetics to plate”—and strategic value chain design to build a healthier, more resilient food system. Visit snacktivistfoods.com to learn more.