After two challenging years, the cranberry harvest in Latvia has seen a favorable season, with growers like Irēna Riežniece of "Purva dzervenīte" reporting abundant yields. Riežniece, whose operation spans 15 hectares in the Nida bog, Rucava parish, highlighted the meticulous process of sorting cranberries, with the prime berries destined for the Polish market. Despite facing obstacles such as uneven harvesting fields leading to potential losses, she noted yields ranging from 10-15 tons per hectare, approaching maximum potential.
Gundega Sauškina, representing both the Fruit Growers' Association and "Very Berry," echoed the sentiment of a successful season, with her company managing to sell its entire harvest within Latvia. However, she pointed out significant challenges, including labor shortages exacerbated by alcoholism, impacting the availability of a capable workforce. Sauškina advocated for policy changes, such as adjusting taxes to address these issues, while also sharing her experience of employing willing workers from Cameroon during the summer.
The season's success, however, is tempered by concerns over retail pricing practices and the sustainability of the labor force necessary for agriculture. As Latvia navigates these complexities, the cranberry sector remains a vital component of its agricultural landscape, balancing between abundant harvests and the ongoing search for solutions to its workforce and economic challenges.
Source: LSM+