Dept. of Tourism, Peterman Brook Herb Farm: Peterman Brook Herb Farm becomes travel green Wisconsin certified

MEDIA CONTACT:
Danielle Johnson, Wisconsin Department of Tourism
608-266-0458; djohnson@travelwisconsin.com

Pat and Deb Doubek, Peterman Brook Herb Farm
715-927-2330; petermanbrookherbfarm@hotmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local herb farm recognized for innovative sustainable practices

PORTERFIELD, Wis. (Oct. 24, 2012) – Growing their own herbs, using them in their handcrafted herbal soaps and sundries, and teaching others how to become more earth-friendly and organic within their family, life, and business are just several of the ways Peterman Brook Herb Farm has made a commitment to sustainability and earned the recognition of Travel Green Wisconsin. Peterman Brook Herb Farm joins over 341 Travel Green Wisconsin certified events, attractions, and destinations.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Peterman Brook Herb Farm to the ranks of Travel Green Wisconsin,” said Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett. “This charming third generation farm fosters a fun environment for travelers to create their own products and learn about sustainability. Businesses such as this continue to raise the bar for going green in other communities.”

Peterman Brook Herb Farm brims with raised bed herb gardens, wild edibles, and medicinal plants to use in the herb and soap shop. The farm sponsors numerous charitable and community events, purchases shares of renewable energy, and reuses organically disinfected plant pots. The herb farm also repurposed old buildings to create a herb/soap shop and a milk house apothecary instead of letting them fall into disuse or dismantling them for landfills.

This year, the Department of Tourism adopted a flat fee of $95 for membership in the Travel Green Wisconsin certification. The change was based on industry feedback and to encourage a wider variety of tourism businesses and organizations to consider implementing sustainable practices in their operations. In addition, the benefits of being a member have increased.

“Our number one goal is to be good stewards of the earth,” said Deb Doubek. “We would love for you and your family to join us in the fresh air for an event or a class, slow life down a bit, indulge in the natural world, and appreciate this great earth for all its offerings.”

Travel Green Wisconsin is the first of its kind in the nation and serves as a model to promote environmentally-friendly practices in the tourism industry. The program is unique for its inclusion of all tourism-related businesses and organizations including but not limited to attractions, events, accommodations, outfitters, restaurants, retail, visitor centers and more. Tourism businesses interested in learning more about becoming certified can contact Travel Green Wisconsin Program Manager Shelly Allness at mallness@travelwisconsin.com or 608-261-8767.

The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to market the State as the Midwest’s premier travel destination by executing industry-leading marketing programs and establishing strategic partnerships. The Department plays a significant role in generating greater economic impact and jobs for Wisconsin. The portal for traveler information can be found at: www.travelwisconsin.com.

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