US: Cranberry growers in Massachusetts are looking at solutions to climate problems

Cranberry harvests are starting in Massachusetts and appear to be average to good. Brian Wick, executive director of the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association (CCCGA), explains that harvest generally wraps up during the second week of November. “Some growers say it looks really good, while others say it looks good. It's been a tough year overall in terms of forecasts.” Photos: Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association Cranberry farmers in the state have faced a particularly rainy season this year and that, along with inflationary challenges, has made it a challenging time for them. “There is a lot of pressure on growers regarding the climate. This year there is too much rain and before that there was a drought,” he says, noting that during drought periods pumps were running to get more water into the peatlands, while during rainy season pumps ran to remove water from the peatlands. “Most growers can't remember such a cold, wet spring,” Wick says. Of course, colder nights also meant ...