Wisconsin once again cemented its status as the country’s cranberry capital, producing 4.8 million barrels in 2025 and supplying more than 60 percent of the U.S. crop, according to new data from the Wisconsin Cranberry Board.

The annual assessment, compiled from required reporting by more than 250 licensed growers and handlers across the state, shows cranberries grown on roughly 21,000 acres in 19 counties. While the total is down from last year’s near‑record harvest, industry leaders say the numbers reflect a stable, healthy crop.

“Wisconsin growers continue to demonstrate resilience, innovation, and stewardship,” said Grant Holley, executive director of the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association. “Even with some variability, Wisconsin continues to deliver a consistent, high‑quality supply and maintain its leadership in the industry.”

Federal data reinforces that dominance. The USDA’s Noncitrus Fruits and Nuts 2025 Summary reports total U.S. production at 7.46 million barrels, with Wisconsin far outpacing other major producers:

  • Massachusetts: 1.9 million barrels
  • Oregon: 527,920 barrels
  • New Jersey: 448,540 barrels

WSCGA Board President Jenna Van Wychen said growers navigated weather challenges and natural post‑banner‑year adjustments. “This season required a lot of attention and flexibility,” she said. “We’re encouraged by the quality of the fruit and how growers managed through the season.”

A billion‑dollar Wisconsin industry

Cranberries remain the state’s largest fruit crop and a major economic engine, generating $1 billion annually and supporting more than 4,000 jobs. Wisconsin also supplies one‑third of all U.S. cranberry exports, according to state data.

Where the berries grow

Production remains concentrated in central and northern Wisconsin. Wood County led the state in 2025 with 1.38 million barrels, nearly 29 percent of total output. Other top‑producing counties included:

  • Monroe County: 989,333 barrels (20.6%)
  • Jackson County: 765,135 barrels (15.9%)
  • Juneau County: 626,493 barrels (13.1%)
  • Vilas County: 278,980 barrels (5.8%)

In all, cranberries were harvested in 19 counties, ranging from fewer than 50 barrels in Burnett and Richland counties to Wood County’s dominant haul.

From marsh to market

Cranberries are harvested from September through early November. About 5 percent of Wisconsin’s crop is sold fresh—mostly for holiday tables—while the remaining 95 percent is processed into juices, dried fruit, sauces, and other products.

The industry measures production in barrels, a longstanding standard equal to 100 pounds of fruit.

Looking ahead

Growers continue to invest in research, sustainability, and innovation through partnerships with the Cranberry Innovation Center, the University of Wisconsin, and the USDA. Those efforts aim to support long‑term productivity and environmental stewardship across the state’s cranberry marshes.

More information about Wisconsin’s cranberry industry is available at Wiscran.org/Experience and on the Wisconsin Cranberry Board’s social media channels.