The Washington Blueberry Commission reports U-pick berry farms are currently open in Eastern Washington, and statewide by July 4. The Commission has launched www.superblues.net to locate U-pick farms and farm stands in Washington State. Washington State had ideal conditions for blueberries this year, with no frost or snow and more availability especially for fresh berries.
Dr. Alan Schreiber, Washington Blueberry Commission Executive Director, says consumer awareness about the health benefits of blueberries is driving the increase in production. Blueberries are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, and are high in antioxidants, which protect against cancer, heart disease, and other age related diseases. Emerging Asian market options have also spurred the increase in production.
"Growers are keeping up with demand, making this the tenth record crop in a row," Schreiber said. "Growers have increased organic and conventional production on 13,000 acres, with 2,500 acres of organic - making Washington State the largest concentration of organic fresh blueberries in the U.S. Large plantings in eastern Washington have contributed to the increase, and almost all the new plantings are of high-yielding varieties planted in higher densities, with highly efficient drip irrigation."
"The Blueberry Commission continues to educate growers on all aspects of food safety and production - from safe food handling and fertilizer application to fresh sales best practices," he continued. "We have trained more than (75) handlers again this season to ensure our berries are safe, with third-party certification process in place for all wholesale and retail sales."
Washington blueberry production:
- 2006 18.4 million pounds
- 2007 28.5 million pounds
- 2010 60 million pounds
- 2013 80 million pounds
- 2014 96 million pounds
For more information:
Pete Delaunay
Washington Blueberry Commission
Tel: +1 206-579-4883