Our first orchard was planted in 2006 near Cornell, WI. We had two goals:
1. Cultivate premium varieties of fruit that everyone loves, but you can't buy in the big grocery stores.
2. Stretch the growing seasons out so we could enjoy locally grown fruit the entire summer instead of just a week or two during the traditional harvest periods.
We started by carving an apple and stone fruit (plums and cherries) orchard into the "big woods" of northern Chippewa Co. The first few years our only customers were the numerous black bears that patiently waited until the fruit was almost ripe, before selfishly stripping the trees bare. After tough lessons in bear proofing we eventually moved to the New Lisbon, WI area and expanded Black Bear Fruits to include raspberries, squash, sweet corn, pumpkins & gourds, and a wide variety of other fruits and vegetables. For the 2018 growing season we'll have over +75 different varieties of farm produce, with 22 varieties of winter squash. Holly makes some of the most fantastic preserves in the area and we have a growing number of honey bee hives so something will always be ready from spring until fall.
The Krizan family welcomes you to our farm and we hope you enjoy our produce as much as we enjoying raising it.
Thanks---Ron, Holly and Gavin Krizan
Throughout the 2018 harvest season you can find us under the big orange tents at the Tomah Farmers's Market at Gillete Park Saturday's from 8am till noon and the New Lisbon Farmer's Market Sunday's from 9am till 1pm.
We have a well Stocked "Honor Stand" that is always available at the end of our driveway. We are also open most evenings after 5:30 for U-Pick raspberries and strawberries. Please call or check our facebook page for up to date season dates and pick times.
We are also a regular vendor at multiple local craft and vendor fairs around the area. Including the world famous CranFest in Warrens WI.
What do I need to bring? Besides a little motivation, you will not need much....picking containers will be provided and you will be directed to your designated picking area. Dress accordingly for the weather including a wide brimmed hat or sunscreen.
How can I tell if what I'm picking is ripe? Just ask! Our staff will gladly give you picking, storing, and preparing tips.
Do you ever run out of ripe fruit? Yes....please monitor our Facebook page or shoot us an email asking about the current picking conditions. Understand that mother nature determines when our fruit gets ripe. We'll do our best let everyone know picking conditions before you come and visit us.
Do I have to Pick my Own? Of course not! We have limited amounts of pre-picked available everyday, however if you email or call your order in ahead of time we'll have it ready when you arrive. Or if you are driving by after hours feel free to stop by our Honor Stand and pick up your favorites.
Are children and pets welcome? Well supervised children are always welcome. Our goal is to make your experience a pleasant one as you start or continue family traditions. Because we are growing food products in an open environment, no pets are allowed outside of your vehicle.
Are there restrooms available? Yes, we also have cold drinks and snacks available for purchase and can usually find you a shady spot to enjoy them.
Can I come to pick anytime? While we appreciate the enthusiasm for fresh fruit please respect our posted hours. If you want to grab something quick while passing past our farm we have a 24hr On Your Honor stand setup with that days fresh offerings.
U-Pick Hours: Please call or check our Facebook page
24/7 Honor Stand May 1st till Oct. 31st