March 1, 2005
Adding value to both their cranberries and their community is what the Iroquois Cranberry Growers have been doing for decades.
Developed in 1968 as an economic development venture, the Iroquois Cranberry Growers have provided a stepping stone for development within the community. Owned and operated by the Wahta Mohawk Nation, the business has grown from a half-acre to 68 acres of cranberry production near Bala, Ontario. Through the years, they have provided much needed employment to community members and have helped support the economic base for community government.
“We, like most businesses, started small,” says Matthew Commandant, Iroquois Cranberry Growers Manager. “Our growth has been mirrored by growth in the community in terms of technology, and community pride.”
The Iroquois Cranberry Growers benefit more than 400 community members. As a business, they support the community with five full-time jobs, 15 seasonal jobs and an additional 30 jobs during harvest. With the harvest, production and sale of a successful line of products, the Iroquois Cranberry Growers bring revenue and pride to the community.
The business puts significant effort and funds into the community for training and development. All employees are trained in cranberry production and processing at a local and national level. The Iroquois Cranberry Growers are so keen on the education of their members that employees are sent to cranberry grower conferences at the University of Wisconsin and the University of Massachusetts for training and networking opportunities.
“Agriculture and cranberry production is very important to our tribe,” says Commandant. “Therefore, it is necessary for us to invest into the training and education of our community and employees.”
The Iroquois Cranberry Growers also emphasize community improvement and social programs. While their training benefits young students, the growers also contribute financial assistance to programs the tribe provides. Their investments in the community have helped to maintain clear walkways and driveways for seniors in the winter and have also helped construct the community centre.
Complementing their community improvement effort, the Iroquois Cranberry Growers also produce an array of products promoting cranberry quality and health benefits. Aside from selling and shipping fresh cranberries at harvest, they also make 100 per cent pure cranberry juice, cranberry sauce, chutney, jam, and cran-maple syrup for distribution across Canada, the U.S. and Europe. For those passing through their gift shop, they also offer a cranberry cookbook, gift baskets, clothing and other gift items.