our growers
Massachusetts
Since our first cranberry crop was harvested in 1816, Massachusetts has become a leading producer, representing 35% of the world's cranberries. That's pretty impressive when you consider that 70% of our state's growers are small family farms with less than 20 acres of bogs. We take a lot of pride in our cranberry heritage. In fact, we've made it our official state berry and colour, and cranberry juice the official state drink.
The Kravitz family
Family stats:
- Bridgewater, Massachusetts.
- 2nd Generation
We're relative newcomers to the cranberry business, but we've been at it long enough to know it's good for families. My parents live on one of our bogs and my dad and I run them together with the rest of our family, so I get to spend a lot of quality time with them that I otherwise wouldn't have. Our three girls spend their weekends on the bog, where they learn about farming and where quality food comes from. And just like me, they all love cranberries!
The Gilmore family
Family stats:
- South Carver, Massachusetts.
- 5th Generation
It all started with my great-great grandfather A.D. Makepeace. After 50 years in cranberries, his sons took over the business and banded together with two other families to form Ocean Spray. I was raised on the bog and even married a cranberry farmer. Growing cranberries is in our blood. And now my husband and I have started a legacy of our own, naming each of our bogs after a family member. Our newest bog was named 9 months ago after the birth of our first grandchild Charlotte, a 7th generation Makepeace.
The Garretson family
Family stats:
- South Carver, Massachusetts.
- 4th Generation
This farm is sacred to me. Heck, my vines go back to the turn of the century. That's why I treat them with the utmost respect and care, and work tirelessly to harvest a quality product. Sometimes I'll go out, lie down next to the vines and listen to them talk - they tell me what they need. I know. Sounds a little out there. But if I don't work in concert with Mother Nature, I'm not gonna succeed. Luckily, she and I both have very high standards.
The Beaton family
Family stats:
- Wareham, Massachusetts.
- 4th Generation
Before getting into the cranberry business, my great-great grandfather was a potato farmer who lived off the land. It has always been the way in our family. Be one with the land, experience nature, and do what you enjoy. For me, that's growing cranberries. Every day brings something different, whether it's waking up early to protect the berries from the spring frost, flooding the bog for the harvest, or trading stories with the team. Growing cranberries is just what I do. And I'm proud of that.