The river otter’s return to the St. Louis River and the Duluth Harbor is a sign that we’re doing something right. Their numbers dwindled during the era of wetlands destruction and widespread water pollution, but have surged since policies favoring clean water have been in force. We are lucky to reside in the Lincoln Park Craft District where creativity and arts are embraced and are proud to have this installation right outside our taproom. Our river otter sculpture was created by Ann Klefstad as part of a grant project to bring art to Minnesota.
We hosted a naming contest and Maris was a popular name that was first suggested by Benny Roberto on Facebook! Maris is named after Maris Otter Malt, a traditional English malt known for its rich flavor profile.
This otter appreciates your company! She has a friend in downtown Duluth, in Estuary Plaza in front of the St Louis County Government Services Center at 2nd St and 4th Ave W., where other water-loving animals also hang out.
This activity was made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. You can check out how to make your own river otter sculpture with this three part video series by Ian MacEneany!
