Farmers interested in learning more about growing blueberries or blackberries were able to learn from the experiences of other growers, USDA scientists, and UC researchers at two days of berry-themed events. The events began May 19 with the Blueberry Field & Packing House tour in the afternoon, followed by the Blueberry & Blackberry Field Day, May 20. Both events were based at UC Kearney Agricultural Center in Parlier, and sponsored by the UC Small Farm Program.
Manuel Jimenez, Small Farm Program advisor with UC Cooperative Extension in Tulare County, organizes the blueberry events that have become an annual gathering for potential and successful blueberry growers of all sizes.
Below are PDF copies of PowerPoint presentations given at Blueberry & Blackberry Field Day:
Please see the agenda for more detailed information about the May 19 & May 20 events.
This article about the two events was published in several newspapers beforehand: Events examine how to farm blueberries, blackberries in Central Valley
Some of the articles that provided news coverage of the event:
"Exploding production and shared information on how to lower pH levels were among topics for a field day that Jimenez coordinated at the UC Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Parlier, Calif. ..."
"Research that had its genesis in an effort to address freeze damage to blackberries in the Midwest could also help protect blackberries in California from the state’s searing summer sun. ..."
"PARLIER, Calif. - The development of heat-tolerant blueberry varieties is attracting more potential California grower-shippers. ..."
"Their roots are shallow, they are finicky about their soil, and extreme temperatures can ruin a crop -- but blueberries can bring sweet rewards for San Joaquin Valley growers who master the art of growing them. ..."
Additional information is also available from the 2008 Week of Blueberries.
If you are unable to view or download these documents, you may need Adobe Acrobat Reader (a free program). You may also request a printed copy from the Small Farm Center at (530) 752-8136.
