blueberry barrens bounds rock and gravel in Orland, Maine

Register for October 8th “Better Soil, Better Berries” A Hands-On Field Day for Blueberry Growers

September 3, 2025 News
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The Hancock County and Washington County Soil & Water Conservation Districts and blueberry farmer Laura Flannery will be presenting the second annual “Better Soil, Better Blueberries” Field Day for wild blueberry growers on October 8th, 2025 in Charlotte, Maine.

Dr. Lily Calderwood of UMaine Cooperative Extension will be in attendance sharing research from her program on mulching wild blueberry fields, and there will be a hands-on demonstration of full-field mulching. Other workshop leaders include:

  • Chris Phinney from USDA-NRCS discussing blueberry irrigation basics and available assistance opportunities.
  • Chris Grigsby of MOFGA discussing resources for organic blueberry growers.
  • Laura Flannery from the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine with an overview of how blueberry tax dollars are put to work.
  • Ashley Martone and Chuck Penney of USDA-NRCS on NRCS programs and technical assistance available to producers and landowners.
  • Audre Hayward of FSA discussing FSA programs and loan options.
  • Mark Whiting of the Hancock County SWCD with on-site free soil pH testing.

This event will take place at 3 Damon Ridge Road, Charlotte, ME 04666 on October 8th, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Lunch will be provided.

To register, or request information and accommodations, please contact the Washington County Soil and Water Conservation District by phone at 207.255.4659, or email: wacomeswcd@gmail.com.