New partnership highlights the connection between clean water, environmental stewardship and local economy of Southwest Florida
Calusa Waterkeeper and Chubby Mermaid Brewing Company have announced a new partnership focused on supporting clean water advocacy and environmental stewardship in Southwest Florida. The partnership reflects a shared belief that healthy waterways are essential to Southwest Florida’s environment, economy, and quality of life.
As part of the new partnership, Chubby Mermaid Brewing Company will donate 1% of tap room sales from its Bonita Springs brewery to support Calusa Waterkeeper’s mission of protecting the Caloosahatchee River and surrounding coastal waters. The partnership also establishes Chubby Mermaid as an annual corporate sponsor of the organization.
For Chubby Mermaid Brewing Company, the connection is also deeply personal and symbolic. The brewery’s name playfully references the Florida manatee — an iconic and endangered species that depends on clean, healthy waterways throughout the region. Business owners say supporting water quality protection aligns naturally with both the company’s identity and its connection to the local community.
“Southwest Florida’s waterways are part of what makes this region special, not only for wildlife, but for the people and businesses that call this place home,” said Gary Fortin, CEO of Chubby Mermaid Brewing Company. “As a brewery, clean water is also central to what we do every day. Partnering with Calusa Waterkeeper was a natural fit because protecting our water resources benefits us all.”
Located in Bonita Springs, Chubby Mermaid Brewing Company has built a strong local following around craft beer, community involvement, and a coastal Florida identity inspired by the region’s waterways and wildlife.
Calusa Waterkeeper leaders say partnerships with local businesses are critical to building broader community awareness and long-term stewardship efforts. “Clean water supports our environment, public health, local economy, and the industries that help define Southwest Florida,” said Jennifer Walker, Fundraising Director for Calusa Waterkeeper. “We’re grateful to partner with businesses like Chubby Mermaid that recognize the importance of protecting the waterways that sustain both our communities and our wildlife.”
The organizations also plan to explore additional collaborative efforts in the future. To find out more about how your business can support local clean water initiatives in Southwest Florida, contact Calusa Waterkeeper today at (239) 899-1440 or calusawaterkeeper.org.