Ohio Pawpaw Growers Association

 

Questions about O.P.G.A.?

Contact:              Dr. Ron Powell

EMAIL RON!

 6549 Amelia Dr.
Cincinnati, OH 45241

phone:
513-777-8367 

 

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OPGA 

The Ohio Pawpaw Growers' Association

Established in 2000 to organize and advance the re-development of a pawpaw (Asimina triloba) industry in Ohio.

Welcome!

Mission:

The Ohio Pawpaw Growers Association is a non-profit, 501(c)3, organization of pawpaw enthusiasts and pawpaw growers dedicated to educating and promoting the superior traits of the pawpaw, developing a pawpaw industry, marketing plan, and preserving and studying the wild pawpaw genetics in Ohio.

Goals:                                                                                 

  1. Educate the general public to the many superior traits of the pawpaw.

  2. Work with governmental agencies, schools and organizations to develop a pawpaw industry plan.                    

  3. Help preserve and study the existing wild pawpaw genetics in Ohio.

  4. Establish the pawpaw as the official state fruit of Ohio.                                          


Why Grow Pawpaws In Ohio? 

The pawpaw has been growing in Ohio for thousands of years & is well suited to the soils & climate.

  • History shows that the native cultures that once thrived in our region farmed large plantations of pawpaws.

  • In 1916 the Journal of Heredity's contest for the best pawpaws named 5 of the top 10 from Ohio.

  • Existing stands of pawpaws are excellent areas to further develop into productive semi-wild orchards.

  • The remaining wild genetics in Ohio may hold several potential cultivars and important genetics that could lead to more improved cultivars.

  • The pawpaw is a nutritionally superior fruit, very high in protein, fat, minerals and amino acids.

  • The pawpaw biomass has potent chemicals which are used for anti-cancer drugs & organic pesticides.

  • Due to these powerful chemicals, livestock and wildlife tend to avoid grazing on the tree.

  • Pawpaws have a huge potential market in Ohio and surrounding states.

  • Juices, ice cream and many other nutritious and delicious products are possible.

  • Better Homes and Gardens voted the pawpaw the landscape tree of the year 2000.