Cranberry Highway

Cranberries are Wisconsin’s number one fruit crop. Wood County is home to the largest inland area marsh, and one of the top producers of cranberries in the United States. Some of the marshes in the county have been producing a cranberry crop for over 100 years! The Cranberry Highway and historical marker share the rich history of cranberries in Wood County with visitors. Tours of working cranberry operations are also available throughout the area.

A perennial plant, cranberries grow on low running vines in sandy bogs and marshes. They can withstand low temperatures, and the vines thrive in acidic soil with few nutrients. It can take three to five years for a new cranberry bed to produce a crop large enough for harvest, but the vines will continue to produce a crop for several decades. Contrary to popular belief, cranberries do not grow in water. Because cranberries float, some bogs are flooded when the fruit is ready for harvesting. Others are harvested using machines that resemble lawn mowers that comb fresh cranberries off the vines.

On average, every acre of cranberry bog is supported by four to ten acres of wetlands, woodlands, and uplands. These areas offer refuge for a rich variety of wildlife including bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, foxes, deer, and wild turkeys.

In the past, cranberries were transported by train to market in 100 pound wooden barrels. Although many years have passed since cranberries were shipped in barrels, this unit of weight remains the industry standard.

Visit www.visitwisconsinrapids.com website for more information on cranberry culture and the Cranberry Highway Tour.

 

Source: Recreation Map 2011-12, Wood County Park & Forestry