Better Soil, Better Berries 2025: A Must-Attend Field Day for Maine Blueberry Growers
If you're a blueberry grower in Maine looking to enhance your operation, mark your calendar for an exceptional learning opportunity coming this fall. The Washington County Soil & Water Conservation District and Blue Ox Blueberries are hosting "Better Soil, Better Berries" – a comprehensive field day designed specifically for blueberry producers who want to maximize their crop potential through improved soil management and sustainable practices. This marks the beginning of an exciting annual tradition where Washington and Hancock County SWCDs will take turns hosting this valuable event each year, with both districts collaborating to ensure growers receive the best possible educational experience.
What Makes This Event Special
This isn't your typical agricultural seminar. Taking place on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the heart of blueberry country at 3 Damon Ridge Road, Charlotte, ME, this hands-on field day brings together some of Maine's most knowledgeable agricultural experts and resources under one tent.
Expert-Led Sessions You Won't Want to Miss
The lineup of speakers represents a powerhouse of agricultural expertise:
Dr. Lily Calderwood from UMaine Cooperative Extension will share cutting-edge research and practical experience in mulching wild blueberry fields. Her insights into soil improvement techniques could be the key to unlocking better yields and healthier plants.
Chris Phinney from USDA-NRCS will demystify blueberry irrigation basics while highlighting assistance opportunities that many growers don't even know exist. Proper irrigation management can make the difference between a good season and a great one.
Chris Grigsby from MOFGA (Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association) will explore opportunities specifically tailored for organic blueberry growers, covering everything from certification processes to market advantages.
Event Host Laura Flannery, blueberry grower and member of Wild Blueberry Commission, will speak on “What Your Blueberry Tax Dollars Do For You.”
Understanding Your Resources and Support Systems
The USDA NRCS team, featuring Ashley Martone and Chuck Penney, will provide comprehensive information about programs and technical assistance available to producers and landowners. These programs can provide significant financial and technical support for conservation practices that benefit both your bottom line and the environment.
Audre Hayward from FSA will break down Farm Service Agency programs and loan opportunities that could help finance improvements to your operation or provide crucial support during challenging seasons.
Free Soil pH Testing – A Valuable Bonus
One of the practical benefits of attending is the free on-site pH soil testing provided by Mark Whiting, Botanist and HCSWCD Board Chair. Understanding your soil's pH is fundamental to blueberry production, as these plants thrive in acidic conditions. Getting this testing done for free while learning from experts makes this event especially valuable. Visit our Healthy Soil page for details on collecting farm land samples.
Why Attend?
Maine's wild blueberry industry is unique and faces distinct challenges, including periodic drought conditions. This field day addresses those specific needs while providing practical, actionable information you can implement immediately. Whether you're dealing with soil fertility issues, considering irrigation improvements, exploring organic production, or simply want to better understand the resources available to support your operation, this event has something for you. The hands-on format means you'll not only hear about best practices but see them in action, ask questions directly to experts, and network with fellow growers facing similar challenges.
Reserve Your Spot
Space is limited for this valuable educational opportunity. To secure your place at "Better Soil, Better Berries," contact the Washington County Soil & Water Conservation District:
📞 Phone: (207) 255-4659
📧 Email: wacomeswcd@gmail.com
Don't miss this chance to invest in your blueberry operation's future. Better soil truly does lead to better berries, and this field day will guide you toward achieving both.
This event is made possible through the collaboration of UMaine Cooperative Extension, USDA-NRCS, MOFGA, the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine, FSA, and the Hancock County and Washington County Soil & Water Conservation Districts.