Grant ID Number: LNE09-281
Grant Recipient: Mark Brand, University of Connecticut, Storrs CT
The black chokeberry (Aronia) is hardy, pest free, and native to the Northeast, and also has very high levels of antioxidants. Not used for a fruit crop here, it is cultivated in Eastern Europe; preliminary work in the West and Midwest indicate the berry's market viability as a nutraceutical. The project manager will alert farmers to the potential of black chokeberry and two regional growers will establish demonstration orchards. As a result, 150 growers will learn about Aronia as an alternative crop, 150 will learn about Aronia cultivars, and 12 will develop business plans and establish Aronia orchards.
