The Maine Wild Blueberry Commission says the conditions are right for a successful blueberry harvest this year. However, the organization is in shock over the abrupt cutoff of federal assistance, just like other agricultural groups in the state.
After a rainy spring that hindered pollination, conditions have improved over the summer, according to Commission executive director Eric Venturini.
“Pollination season wasn’t great, but we’ve had pretty decent weather since then,” he stated. “A lot of things have recovered, berries sized up, and things are looking pretty good.”
However, Venturini said his team found out last month that a $15.5 million grant for irrigation infrastructure to lessen the effects of the drought had been canceled by the USDA.
“It’s quite disappointing, because that would have been a historic investment in our industry that would have helped us overcome one of our most significant challenges, which is the really devastating impacts of drought,” he stated.
He stated that his team is searching for other sources of finance.
According to Venturini, the commission, growers, and companies throughout the state are preparing for the August 2 and 3 statewide Wild Blueberry Weekend festivities.
