Maine’s Blueberry Crisis: Unseen Climate Shifts Threaten $360 Million Industry

Early Harvest Disrupts Traditional Farming

This summer’s wild blueberry harvest in Maine arrived a month earlier than expected. The region’s 484 blueberry growers, including Wyman’s, have had to stay vigilant about climate changes. Adapting to these shifts, they’ve modified their farming techniques to handle increased heat and erratic rainfall.

Wild blueberries, only farmed in Maine and eastern Canada, are especially vulnerable. Farmers are constantly researching and adjusting their methods in real-time. This includes fine-tuning the timing for irrigation, fertilizer application, and other crucial aspects of farming.

Tooley, a key figure in the blueberry industry, mentioned, “The crop adapted to the climate in a certain way [over time], but now we’re seeing this rapid change.” This rapid change has forced farmers to become more flexible and adaptable.

In the fields, you’ll find a mix of traditional hand pickers and modern machinery. Workers in wide-brimmed hats use metal rakes to gather berries, while mechanical pickers handle larger areas. This diverse approach highlights the blend of old and new techniques in response to climate challenges.

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Economic Impact and Farming Techniques

The wild blueberry industry significantly boosts Maine’s economy, contributing over $360 million annually. Wyman’s alone employs around 300 people, with other farms collectively providing jobs for approximately 500 more. This industry is a lifeline for many communities.

Unlike the high-bush blueberries commonly seen in supermarkets, wild blueberries spread naturally through underground roots. Farmers manage these roots carefully to encourage growth. These resilient plants can thrive in various environments, from rocky cliffs to sandy soils, needing minimal care beyond biennial pruning and pollination.

However, research shows that blueberry barrens are warming faster than the rest of Maine. This makes the climate not just hotter but also more unpredictable. To combat this, farmers are investing in advanced weather prediction and plant care techniques.

Key strategies include:

• Increased use of nitrogen-based fertilizers to retain soil moisture during droughts.
• Adjusting irrigation frequencies based on real-time weather conditions.
• Bringing in pollinators earlier in the season to ensure effective fruit-bearing.

Adapting to Unpredictable Weather

Farmers have noticed three major trends affecting berry growth: a longer and earlier growing season, warmer temperatures, and more precipitation. While these might seem beneficial, they can actually harm the plants. For instance, unseasonably warm autumns can cause a “fall bloom,” leading to frost-damaged buds.

Additionally, the decrease in “snowpack” leaves plants exposed to harsh winter elements. Historically, this layer of compressed snow protected the low-growing plants. Without it, the plants face more severe conditions, making it harder to survive.

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The farming community is limited in how it can protect vast acres during harsh winters. However, once spring arrives, the focus shifts to simulating “normal” growing conditions. This includes earlier pollination efforts and increased irrigation to support the plants.

Tooley noted, “We’re definitely bringing in bees earlier than we used to… and irrigating more.” These measures are crucial for helping the plants ripen and reproduce. Farmers must provide all necessary resources to keep the crops thriving.

Learning from Each Season

Every year offers new lessons for the next. After a particularly intense drought, farmers began using nitrogen-based fertilizers to help the soil retain moisture. Conversely, during rainy years, they adjust irrigation accordingly to prevent overwatering.

The harvest period is a high-stakes time. If the conditions are right, berries abound, allowing for a more relaxed approach to harvesting. However, the pressure is immense, as the livelihood of many people depends on this short, intense period.

“We work all year — for two whole years — to make this happen,” Tooley said. “Then we have four weeks to get it out of the ground.” This urgency underscores the importance of careful planning and adaptation to changing conditions.

Ultimately, the goal is to support the resilient blueberry crops, ensuring they continue to provide for the communities that rely on them. Farmers trust in the crop’s ability to adapt, but they also recognize the need to give it every possible advantage.

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