Wild blueberry growers in New Brunswick expect a solid harvest this season, with projections likely to match or exceed last year’s total of 56 million pounds.

Don Arseneault, general manager of Bleuets NB Blueberries (BNBB), said the province has seen strong production in recent years, including a record-setting 85 million pounds three years ago.

He said the average harvest used to sit around 50 million pounds, but recent seasons have pushed that number higher.

“Over the last couple of years, we’ve had some high numbers,” Arseneault said. “So we do probably expect to hit at least 60 and up this year.”

He said the crop outlook is encouraging, though frost and drought remain unpredictable risks.

“So far we’ve been hearing some good things,” he said. “We’re looking forward to seeing what the numbers will be.”

Pest Alert and Pricing Pressures

Growers have been alerted to spotted wing drosophila, an invasive vinegar fly detected in southern New Brunswick.

The pest lays eggs in ripening fruit and can damage soft crops such as blueberries and strawberries. Arseneault said the impact has been minimal so far, but it remains a concern.

“I haven’t heard feedback from farmers this summer that something drastic happened to their crops,” he said.

“So I’m hoping everything’s going to be great and the numbers will show it.”

He said pricing continues to be a challenge, especially when crop quality is affected.

“If fruit quality drops, processors may offer lower prices,” Arseneault said. “That’s a concern, and we’re working with stakeholders to address it.”

Climate and pollination concerns

Arseneault said climate change is having a growing impact on the industry, with drier conditions affecting crops and requiring costly infrastructure upgrades.

“To start investing in aeration systems and other infrastructure takes a lot of capital,” he said.

“It’s one thing to take out a loan, but you still have to pay it back.”

Pollination is another major concern. Arseneault explained that at current production levels, growers need between 35,000 and 40,000 hives annually, but only about 9,000 to 11,000 are available locally.

Bees are imported from other provinces, including Ontario and Alberta, though cross-border imports from the U.S. are limited due to disease risks.

“We’ve worked hard with the province and the New Brunswick Beekeepers to develop a strategy to increase hive numbers here,” Arseneault said.

He added that not all beekeepers supply hives for commercial pollination, as some focus solely on honey production.

Despite the shortage, pollination this season is stable, though not without challenges.

Exports and value-added growth

New Brunswick has about 175 wild blueberry farmers. Most sell to processors such as Oxford Foods, Bragg’s and Wyman’s, which distribute globally.

Arseneault said about 75 to 80 per cent of growers sell to processors, while a small number export independently.

He added that there’s growing interest in value-added products, from blueberry wines and beer to chocolate and baked goods.

Producers like Magnetic Hill Winery and Four Rivers Brewing are among those using wild blueberries in their offerings.

“There’s no reason why wild blueberries can’t be part of pancakes or muffins served in schools,” Arseneault said, referring to the province’s breakfast and lunch program.

Wild Blueberry Flavour Fest runs Aug. 18 to 24, with more than 200 restaurants participating across the province.

That’s up from about 70 restaurants four years ago. In Saint John alone, about 30 restaurants are taking part.

Arseneault said the initiative has grown through partnerships with groups such as the Dairy Farmers of New Brunswick and Savour NB.

Arseneault explained how BNBB has developed a 55-page curriculum for students in grades 2 to 5, incorporating wild blueberries into subjects such as math and human science.

He added that the resource was piloted this year and included a classroom visit from a local farmer.

A related comic book featuring a blueberry character is being produced in English, French and Mi’kmaq.

He said the initiative is part of a broader effort to build pride in the industry and educate the public about the benefits of wild blueberries.

“They offer more health benefits than cultivated blueberries,” he said. “Even frozen, they’re just as good as fresh.”