The Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association (WSCGA) announced the Governor’s Proclamation of Cranberry Grower Appreciation Week, running from October 14-20, 2024. This week celebrates the hard work and innovation of cranberry growers throughout the state. This recognition includes family-owned operations like Cutler Cranberry Company. Cutler Cranberry Company was founded in 1923 by Guy Potter.
Lisa Potter, a representative of Cutler Cranberry, shared the proud history of their operation. She highlighted its significant evolution over the past century. “We are one of the older marshes in the state. A lot has changed over the years as it has been passed down through different generations. We started with hand-harvesting cranberries and transporting them by horse-drawn cart. Now, we’ve embraced innovation to remain competitive,” she explained.
Cutler Cranberry is a historical operation with a rich legacy. It also embodies the spirit of innovation in the cranberry industry. Potter noted, “Part of being a farm that has lasted this long is the necessity of innovation. We are constantly exploring new processes, equipment, and also varieties of cranberries to improve our yield and efficiency.”
Cranberry growers and research institutions are collaborating to develop new varieties that benefit the industry. “We’ve partnered with Rutgers University and also the University of Wisconsin-Madison for over 20 years,” Potter said. “Our goal is to create cranberry varieties that meet market demands.”
Wisconsin is the leading state in cranberry production. Potter attributes this success to the region’s ideal conditions. These conditions include excellent soil quality and also abundant water availability. “We have the right natural circumstances, and the rural setting supports our kind of farming,” she added.
The WSCGA invites everyone to recognize the efforts of cranberry growers and learn more about their contributions to the state’s agricultural landscape during this appreciation week. In addition to celebrating the industry, Cutler Cranberry welcomes school groups and visitors to explore their marsh and gain insight into where their food comes from. “It’s important for kids to understand agriculture and the hard work that goes into it,” Potter emphasized.
With an average yield expected for this year, Cutler Cranberry’s operations are in full swing during the harvest season. The farm produces an impressive volume of cranberries, with the capacity to package around 24 million berries in an eight-hour shift, showcasing the scale and efficiency of modern cranberry farming.
As part of the Ocean Spray Cooperative, Cutler Cranberry exemplifies the unity among family farms that contributes to the cooperative’s global success. “Ocean Spray is a grower-owned cooperative, and we, along with over 700 family farms, own the company, ensuring that our voices are heard in the decision-making process,” Potter explained.
This Cranberry Grower Appreciation Week, the WSCGA encourages everyone to support local cranberry growers and enjoy the fruits of their labor in delicious recipes, such as Lisa’s favorite cranberry meatballs, a unique twist on a traditional dish.
