Jan 30, 2019

Blueberry Intensive Workshops offered in New York state

The New York State Berry Growers Association (NYSBGA) has partnered with Cornell Cooperative Extension to bring growers a pair of winter Blueberry Intensive Workshops. An in-depth look at growing and management techniques, pest and diseases, profitability tools, and more, the Blueberry Intensive Workshops will feature 10 expert speakers from Cornell University, Cornell CCE, New York State IPM, Rutgers University, and Pennsylvania State University, as well as owners of successful area farms. The workshops will be held in Ellicottville, New York on March 5, 2019, and in Millbrook, New York on March 14, 2019. The cost to attend is $35 for current NYSBGA members and $45 for non-members.

Growers who attend the workshops will learn about:

·          Choosing and preparing a site for blueberry production

·          Blueberry diseases and management strategies

·          Blueberry insect pest management

·          Using the NEWA blueberry pest and disease models to best advantage

·          Alternative options for markets

·          Using a new berry crops profitability tool

·          How area farms have ensured success in their blueberry growing program

·          Nutrition for blueberries

·          Post-harvest handling to reduce pest damage and improve fruit quality

·          Correct pruning techniques, with a live, hands-on demonstration

·          Pest scouting and weed management

Attendees will also receive a resource packet of presenter handouts and other valuable information that they can refer to season after season. In addition, they will have the opportunity to ask the experts questions that are specific to their own farms.

To view the full agenda and list of speakers, click here. To register for either the March 5 (Ellicottville) or March 14 (Millbrook) session, click here.

Founded in 1988, the New York State Berry Growers Association (NYSBGA) is a nonprofit educational association for berry growers, from large wholesale family farms to independent farm stands and small pick-your-own operations, across New York State. The NYSBGA promotes the growing and marketing of berries through the exchange of valuable information, including scientific research and farming techniques. We also represent growers in issues of labor, research, and technology, both academically and legislatively, and award research grants to study and address issues important to New York State berry growers.

To locate a farm in your area of New York that sells fresh, locally grown berries, visit our Find a Farm directory. Or bookmark our blog for nutritional information, recipes, and original serving ideas.