Blueberry farmers in Oak Bay and Sackville are monitoring the upcoming season closely, with expectations for an earlier start. Last year's wet conditions impacted yields significantly, but the current season shows promise due to favorable weather patterns. Todd Tuddenham of Tuddenham Farms noted an anticipated end-of-July start, attributing it to an early spring and beneficial weather, including adequate rainfall and sunny days for pollination. However, Tom Trueman of Trueman Blueberry Farms remains cautious, acknowledging the unpredictability of weather and its potential impact on the crop.
David Percival, from Dalhousie University's Wild Blueberry Research Program, links the earlier season to climate change, noting warmer fall temperatures as a contributing factor. While New Brunswick experiences favorable conditions, concerns arise over the availability of Jamaican workers for Tuddenham's farm due to Hurricane Beryl's impact on travel. The reliance on timely worker arrival underscores the challenges faced by the industry, emphasizing the critical role of weather in agricultural planning and outcomes.
Source: cbc.ca