Uncommon Fruits with Sustainability Potential

Posted August 2007

black currantsSince 2003, Carandale Farm has been evaluating 42 unusual fruits for environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The goal is to find nutrient-rich fruits that can be grown easily, without a lot of labor or chemicals. The fruits must provide economic viability for the farm. Carandale owners Dale and Cindy Secher are developing a “short list” of unusual fruits that farmers can grow to develop local markets and local food systems.


The following two publications provide details about the Carandale fruit trials and fruit crops that have shown promise in these trials:

Uncommon Fruit Crops With Sustainability Potential (PDF). Provides information about the cultivation, economic potential, health characteristics, environmental considerations, and marketing potential for the eight most promising fruits in the Carandale trial. Written for growers.

Uncommon Fruits at Carandale Farm (PDF brochure). Provides more general information about the four most promising fruits found in the Carandale trial, and how they fit into a sustainable food system. Written for a general audience.

CIAS is celebrating its 20th anniversary!

In 1989, farmers, farm and environmental groups, researchers, educators and other citizens joined forces to start CIAS. Twenty years later, we are recognized as one of eight national campus leaders in sustainable agriculture. We’ve worked across the state to put the Wisconsin Idea to work. Read about our accomplishments here.

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CIAS in the community

Ride to Farm

Ride to Farm

From June 12-14, a group of fearless riders braved the wind and hills of southern Wisconsin to raise money for, and awareness of, the Wisconsin School for Beginning Dairy and Livestock Farmers. The 2009 Ride to Farm covered about 200 miles. Ride stops included the farm of SBDF graduate Kyle Tews in Orfordville and Uplands Cheese in Dodgeville. Delicious dinners were provided by the Monroe and River Valley FFA chapters. Many thanks to all of our riders, supporters and sponsors!

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