Established in 1888 to standardize the measure with which cranberries are sold, the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association (CCCGA) is one of the country’s oldest farmers’ organizations. Today, CCCGA (aka Massachusetts Cranberries) represents approximately 330 growers farming 13,000+ acres of cranberry bogs throughout southeastern Massachusetts. The unity CCCGA provides has given growers both a single voice and collective strength in promoting the cranberry industry.
CCCGA has a professional staff that aids growers in solving everyday problems, offering assistance with regulatory compliance, sponsoring professional development seminars and organizing other grower-focused activities. CCCGA has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in cranberry research to help improve the efficiency and environmental compatibility of cranberry farms. Through continued support, CCCGA is working to ensure that cranberry farming can survive urbanization and that open space and clean water, vital to cranberry growing, will be preserved
The CCCGA also operates a frost warning system. Frost protection is a vital part of cranberry farming. In the event of frost danger, cranberry grower members are notified by phone or through access to a special code-a-phone system that a frost may be occurring and to take appropriate management action to protect the buds (spring) or berries (fall).
Grower Membership in the CCCGA is voluntary and is based on an assessment of a farmer's crop. Businesses and organizations may join as Sustaining Members, while those individuals who support the ideals of the Association, but who are not active growers or in a related business, may join the CCCGA as Associate Members.
Resources
Neighbor Brochure
Cranberries 101
Cranberry Fact Sheet