Reminder for blueberry harvesters

Officials with the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods wish to remind blueberry harvesters that the blueberry crop is only 50-60 per cent ripe in most areas of the province and that blueberry processing plants will only accept berries for processing when the crop is at least 90 per cent ripe.

The department has been advised by blueberry processors that they are placing increased emphasis on obtaining quality product from the field and that only good quality berries will be purchased. Prematurely harvested berries will not be accepted and will only result in dumping; therefore, a reduction in the blueberry production will occur. Blueberry pickers who sell their berries are advised to refrain from harvesting blueberries until approval has been received from plant operators who are monitoring crop maturity on a regular basis.

The 2002 blueberry crop is estimated to be above average this summer. Weather conditions during the growing season have been quite good, as well there was very little winter damage, no frost during bloom and good pollination.

Media contact:

Ed Butt, Small Fruit Specialist, (709) 637-2662

Sonia Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183

2002 08 27                               1:40 p.m.