Cranberry Harvest Underway in Wisconsin, Massachusetts

Cranberry harvest is underway across major growing regions, with Wisconsin producing about 60% of the U.S. crop and Massachusetts growers reporting an early start and cautiously optimistic prospects for 2026. In Massachusetts, the crop is expected to be somewhat larger than last year, though hot, humid summer weather could affect fruit quality and the final outcome will depend on the main harvest period. Harvesting methods determine how berries are used: dry-picked fruit is handled gently for the limited fresh market, while flooding bogs lets berries float for collection and is commonly used for fruit destined for processed products. Only a small share of the U.S. crop is sold fresh, so the seasonal supply typically fades after the holiday period; most berries become juice, sauce, dried fruit and other products. The harvest also draws visitors to bogs, where farms are increasingly offering agritourism experiences.