ARS | Publication request: Development of educational tools to connect public audiences with cranberry researchers and growers

Submitted to: North American Cranberry Research and Extension Workers Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: July 15, 2011
Publication Date: September 11, 2011
Citation: Zalapa, J.E., Steffan, S.A., Harbut, R., Fredette, N. 2011. Development of educational tools to connect public audiences with cranberry researchers and growers [abstract]. North American Cranberry Research and Extension Workers Annual Meeting. Paper No. 8.

Technical Abstract: Cranberry, Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait., is a native fruit crop of North America and a member of the Ericaceae family. The delicious tangy cranberry is associated with health benefits due to its abundant phytochemicals, including vitamin C, manganese, and anti-oxidants. Cranberries are major cash crop for the state of Wisconsin with $350 million in crop value for 2009. In the same year, Wisconsin produced 47% of the total U.S. cranberry production. There is an opportunity to develop educational tools in cranberry to help connect a wide range of public audiences with UW-Madison’s six faculty members, whom are passionately involved in the eclectic areas of research of this power fruit. Such tools will promote general knowledge of the delicious flavor and disease fighting properties of cranberries as well knowledge regarding breeding, genetics, pathology, entomology, physiology, and weed science. Along with the faculty members, 400 Wisconsin growers could benefit from an opportunity to promote the consumption cranberries by using outreach materials designed to make a connection between the general public and the rich history and culture of the industry. Thus, the aim of this project is to develop simple outreach activities and tools focused on cranberries that will be used by researchers and growers to instruct and engage a wide range of the general public. The public will be able to gain knowledge of cranberries through the compilation of media types, information worksheets, games, and hands-on science activities that will be readily accessible to researchers and growers. This compilation of information will be easily disseminated in the many science fairs, cranberry festivals, and other outreach venues that occur throughout communities in the state. Developing outreach tools in cranberry will help propagate knowledge of an iconic American crop in terms of historic, cultural, and economical value and unique biological characteristics that make this small fruit “Wisconsin’s crantastic super fruit.”