The blueberry harvest in the region of Bajo Nalón is now at risk due to the high temperatures. If the heat persists, the fruits could be affected, which would be a disaster, considering that this was expected to be a very good year. As pointed out by the technician of the Asturian Association of Producers of Small Fruits, José Díaz, "we have had cold in winter and a long spring, which has resulted in large and sweet fruits with a good appearance."
There are seven producers in the region of Bajo Nalón y Salas, three in Pravia, one in Soto del Barco, one in Muros de Nalón and two in Salas, who cultivate about ten hectares in total. In the peak season (July and August) they employ up to half a hundred workers, not counting the indirect jobs that are generated in the selection, marketing and distribution plants. One of the most important in Asturias is precisely the cooperative society Principado Berries, which only in packaging employs about 8 people; a figure that can double with the campaign in full swing.
Now the question is whether the high temperatures will continue, because "the heat burns the fruit, baking it and drying it. We are facing that risk," explains Díaz, who believes this will be a good year if the weather doesn't prevent it.
Most of this fruit is marketed by companies devoted to this activity, although the producers themselves, through their cooperatives, also sell a small part. Asturian blueberries are also sold by large retailers in other parts of Spain and a considerable share is intended for export. During the summer months, Asturias is the region that has the most production, especially in July and August. There are about 60 producers of berries in the entire region.
Source: lainformacionbn.es
