A decade ago, cranberry farming in Newfoundland and Labrador received significant government support and funding, creating a promising industry with 15 operational cranberry farms. However, the Cranberry Industry Development Program faced challenges, with only $5 million of the allotted $12 million spent as intended due to oversight issues.
Despite the decline in government backing, nine cranberry farms continue to operate in the province. Cory Reid, a farmer at Recon Development Farm, reflects on the industry’s fluctuating prices over the years but notes a recent rebound in profitability. He highlights the time-intensive process of cranberry farming, with the first harvest typically ready five to six years after planting.
Facing additional hurdles post-government assistance, cranberry farmers in the region previously sold their produce to Indian Bay Frozen Foods. When the company left the industry, farmers collaborated to form Cran-Pac Foods in 2019, now based in Centreville-Wareham-Trinity. The manager, Darlene Gover, expresses optimism for the future, citing a significant increase in cranberry production volumes since 2014.
Reid mentions that Newfoundland and Labrador cranberries are now exported to countries like Germany, China, and Chile through Cran-Pac Foods. While the export business thrives, Gover aims to promote cranberry consumption locally, despite challenges in persuading people to try the tart fruit. She also envisions establishing a processing plant in the province to further enhance the industry’s growth.