Cranberry Harvest

One of only three fruits native to North America, the cranberry is one amazing berry and an economic boon to the area. They were originally named “crane berries,” as their blossoms closely resemble the head of a Sandhill Crane.

Contrary to popular belief, cranberries grow on low, dry, woody plants. Water is used during harvest time to help float the hollow berries, making harvest much easier. The water used for harvest comes from nearby lakes, and is returned to the lake cleaner than when it started due to the natural filtering capabilities of the marshes.

What started with five families digging marshes and building roads in the mid-1940s has expanded into six farms totaling 650 acres of cranberries. This small but mighty industry in Manitowish Waters produces about 15,000,000 pounds annually, employs 30 full-time employees, and brings in an additional 50 employees for the harvest.

Fun Facts

Harvest lasts about 5-6 weeks from early September through mid-October. 95% of cranberries are used for juice or sweet and dried cranberries, leaving roughly 5% harvested for fresh fruit. Wisconsin growers account for 60% of the world’s cranberry harvest and contribute $3 billion annually to the state’s economy.

Photo by Mo Speer Photography photo by Barbara Parker