Sustainable Growing

BACKGROUND

When most people think of cranberries, they think of the color red. But for 125 years and counting, Wisconsin growers and WSCGA have worked tirelessly to be known as green, too. WSCGA and its growers have a strong commitment to sustainability and managing Wisconsin’s cranberry marshes in the most environmentally responsible manner. Most of our growers live and work on the marsh, and many are fourth and fifth generation growers whose families have grown cranberries on that same land for generations. Sustainability to them is a way of life. In fact, for every acre of cranberries grown in Wisconsin, approximately seven acres of surrounding support lands are preserved, including forests, reservoirs and other habitats. Also, since 2004, 51 environmental conservation projects have been undertaken by Wisconsin cranberry growers through the Natural Resources Conservation Service to conserve water on their marshes or start nutrient management plans, to name a few.

Additionally, some growers have also worked with the U.S. Geological Survey on its efforts to survey common loon nesting habits in Wisconsin. More and more loons, which seek clean water on which to live and nest nearby, are being identified on cranberry marshes in central Wisconsin.

Many people can talk about being environmentally responsible, but Wisconsin cranberry growers put action behind their commitment every day - and in interesting ways. See how by learning about: