In a move that underscores the power of collaboration and the enduring spirit of Central Oregon’s craft beverage community, five iconic brands — Crux Fermentation Project, Silver Moon Brewing, Cascade Lakes Brewing Co., GoodLife Brewing, and Tumalo Cider Co. — are joining forces under a newly formed coalition named Oregon Beverage Collective (OBC). This strategic partnership is more than a business decision; it’s a shared commitment to preserving local legacy brands, investing in community, and building a sustainable future for regional beverages.
Crux Fermentation Project leads the way in this alliance. Crux has been a local Central Oregon brand since 2012, and over the years, it has built its name across the Pacific Northwest. Crux is constantly pushing boundaries with inventive beverages, such as NØMØ non-alcoholic brews, and a commitment to traditional techniques, such as barrel aging and brewing with whole-cone hops. Crux’s blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and community presence has made it a standout force in the vibrant craft beer scene for over 14 years.
“We’re incredibly proud to have the Crux legacy join those who call Central Oregon home, but who also share our passion for pushing forward,” said Larry Sidor, Crux co-founder and former brewmaster. “This alliance will ensure Crux will grow in the collaborative hands of folks who truly get what makes it special.”
Added Paul Evers, who also co-founded Crux: “Crux has always been anchored in community and collaboration from the beginning — in many ways, it’s always belonged to the people who gathered on the lawn and filled the tasting room. This Collective is a natural extension of that ethos — a community of breweries marching together into the next era of craft beverages. We’ve known the team behind the other brands in this Collective for years, and they’re a natural fit to join forces in this next chapter.”
At the heart of this alliance is Steve Augustyn of Silver Moon Brewing, known for creating the pub’s vibrant culture while maintaining its bold beers and deep community roots. Silver Moon has a history that spans facility ownership, contract brewing, and serving as a contract partner, which brings a 360-degree perspective to the coalition. Silver Moon’s collaborative partnership with Tumalo Cider, which began in early 2025, reinforces the commitment to keeping the community strong.
“Silver Moon has always thrived on energy, creativity, and connection,” said Steve Augustyn, owner of Silver Moon Brewing. “After 25 years, it seems as if we’ve lived every role in the brewing world, and that gives us a unique lens on what works—and what doesn’t. This coalition is a chance to share those lessons, amplify our strengths, and keep pushing the boundaries of what Oregon beer can be.”
Cascade Lakes Brewing, Oregon’s first and only not-for-profit brewery, has a strong production backbone, operational stability, and a clear-eyed view of the challenges ahead.
“With our production facility in Redmond, we’ve felt the pressure of rising costs firsthand,” said Andy Rhine, owner of Cascade Lakes. “This partnership allows us to continue operations while staying true to our mission. Beer and alternative beverages are key to growth and sustainability, and we’re excited to explore new possibilities together.”
GoodLife Brewing is another beloved brand in this community and is eager to join forces.
“GoodLife was built on community, creativity, and innovation,” said Garett Oliphant, co-owner and visionary of GoodLife Brewing. “With rising costs from real estate and suppliers, collaboration just makes sense. It allows us to protect what matters most: keeping beer accessible for our customers, and ensuring GoodLife thrives long into the future.”
Billy Muzio, co-owner and business strategist, added: “By sharing resources, we gain purchasing power, efficiency, and scalability that make growth possible.”
Together, Oliphant and Muzio see this partnership as a natural evolution of Bend’s brewing culture.
OBC is led by a team with deep industry experience and a passion for regional pride. Together, these brands are proving that in Central Oregon, collaboration isn’t just a strategy — it’s a way of life.
“This coalition is about more than beer—it’s about legacy, leadership, and lasting local impact,” said Steve Augustyn, who will serve as CEO of OBC. “We’re coming together to ensure beloved brands not only survive, but thrive. Our strategic partners reflect the spirit of Central Oregon: from Crux Fermentation’s innovation and creativity, to Cascade Lakes’ not-for-profit driven model, to Silver Moon’s community-forward events like F Cancer, to GoodLife’s investment in family-friendly spaces, to Tumalo’s strong branding and community presence.
“This isn’t just business—it’s a shared commitment to the people and places that make this region special,” Augustyn added. “And with new products on the horizon, we’re just getting started.”
About Oregon Beverage Collective
Oregon Beverage Collective (OBC) is a collaborative production partnership uniting some of Central Oregon’s most recognized craft beverage brands, including Crux Fermentation Project, Silver Moon Brewing, Cascade Lakes Brewing Company, GoodLife Brewing, and Tumalo Cider Co. Formed to strengthen operational sustainability while preserving the individuality and legacy of each brand, the Collective focuses on shared resources, innovation, and community investment to create world-class craft beverages that make Central Oregon proud. For more information, visit oregonbeveragecollective.com.
