The BC Blueberry Council Research Program
The objective of the BC Blueberry Council’s research program is to support growers through innovating new varieties and cultural practices that enhance the economic, social and environmental sustainability of local production.
The BCBC’s Research Committee routinely assesses grower's needs and sets production research priorities. These priorities are used to direct the strategic development of research capacity to address practical, real-world challenges faced by BC blueberry growers. In collaboration with the Raspberry Industry Development Council and the BC Strawberry Growers’ Association, the BCBC manages several on-going research programs and continually develops new research projects.
The BCBC’s research relies on collaborations with researchers in government, academia, and private industry, and grower levy dollars are effectively leveraged through various government funding programs.
Current research includes:
The BC Berry Breeding Program
Developing new blueberry varieties with improved local adaptation, fruit yield and quality, resistance to pests and diseases, and suitability for machine-harvest for fresh markets. Read more.
On-Farm Grower Trials
Assessing local adaptation and market opportunities for new varieties developed in other regions and determining the commercial potential of future varieties under development by the BC Berry Breeding Program.
Pollination and Bee Health
Supporting the use of wild pollinator habitat to improve native pollination services and improving BC blueberry growers’ understanding of how they can work with honey producers to support bee health. Read more.
Pest and Disease Management
Improving Integrated Pest Management options through understanding key insect pests, including spotted wing drosophila and weevils, as well as economically damaging diseases, such as blueberry shock virus, bacterial blight and fruit rot. Read more.
Cultural Practices and Fruit Quality
Enhancing fruit yield, quality and shelf-life through development of novel management practices that range from pre-harvest horticultural management in the field to post-harvest packaging for distant export markets.
Audible Bird Scare Devices
Develop and maintain an effective bird management plan. A well-planned program leads to better bird control and fewer crop losses, in addition to aiding neighbour relations. Read more.