WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, SportsClass of the Week 11/20: Pittsville High School's: Cranberry Science Class

Class of the Week 11/20: Pittsville High School's: Cranberry Science Class

by Natalie Sparacio

PITTSVILLE ( WAOW)-- They call themselves "cranberry crazy", 32 high school students at Pittsville pride themselves on being part of the only cranberry science class, in the world!

Bill Urban, the school's Agriculture teacher, says, "... I think its made the state as well as the nation more aware that were the cranberry basket of the world right now in this area... and that's why I think it's made a positive impact."

The students hold several two hour tours at area marshes, they were recently spotlighted by the "Chicago Tribune".

Their "Red Cranberry Highway Tours" are really on the map, visitors from other states and countries now travel to Pittsville to learn about the industry.

 This year alone, they presented to over 600 people.

Tom Gardner, a local marsh owner says, "... it's kind of a once in a lifetime experience where they get to see what's going on, and what happens on the marsh and how things run, and where it starts, and where the fruit comes from.

Students organize, speak and educate the public about an industry that is vital to their hometown.

April Buelt, a senior says, "... it helped me out a lot with leadership and to talk in front of people I've become more comfortable around people, and I've learned a lot about cranberries."

Urban says, "... I see the kids grow from the first tour to the last tour... where they're very nervous and there's a lot of anxiety to taking on a leadership role."

I had a chance to speak to the students about their unique take on the agriculture business. They're interest and knowledge of the subject was impressive. It's clear their passionate about teaching others and learning.

That's why they're this weeks...Class of the week!

If you're interested in going on one of their tours go to: