For Immediate Release

Carandale Farms to See if Aronia can be Profitable Cash Crop

County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today an Oregon farm that
wants to start growing a berry known for a wide range of health
benefits, will receive a county grant to help the new start-up
project.

Carandale Farms in Oregon will receive a Dane County Ag Enterprise
grant to assist with its efforts in growing and marketing Aronia, also
known as Chokeberry. The $10,000 county grant will help determine the
feasibility of Aronia being a new cash crop for growers in the area.

“Dane County’s agricultural economy is so vibrant because our
visionary, innovative farmers keep trying these new products and
exploring new markets to sell them,” Falk said. “Success with this new
project will mean more income for Dane County’s innovative growers.”

Falk noted the Aronia berry has anxioxidants that scientists feel can
help reduce the risk of everything from heart disease to colorectal
cancer. Other medical studies have also shown the berry may benefit
those with chronic inflammation, ulcers, or even liver failure. In
addition, the berries are high in Vitamin C.

Aronia berries can be used to make wine or jam and also as flavoring
or colorant for drinks and yogurts.

Aronia grows on shrubs and is most typically found in swamps and woods
in the eastern
part of North America.

Falk created the Agricultural Enterprise Grant program to help Dane
County’s farmers grow their businesses and bottom lines. Agriculture
accounts for $3-billion a year for Dane County’s economy.