Cook AZ visited the Ocean Spray receiving plant in
Chatsworth, NJ on October 16. We were able to tour the facilities and learn about
cranberry processing as well as visit one of their experimental breeding sites
and a bog. We learned about breeding for genetic resistance to pests as opposed
to using pesticides and maintaining genetic diversity while running a
monocultural facility. We were able to watch a harvest from the bog and
discussed the different machinery developed specifically by the plant to
expedite the process. On our way back, we stopped by a government protected
area that was previously a cranberry bog. It had been home to many organisms
while it was functioning and in an effort to protect the area, when the bog
closed, the government left it to return to its natural state. However, much of
the biodiversity was then lost. It was a great way to learn about commercial ag
and the benefits it can have on the surrounding ecosystems.