Current Research Projects
Ongoing Research Supporting BC Blueberry Growers
The BC Blueberry Council funds and collaborates on research projects that address key production, pest, disease, varietal, quality, and industry challenges specific to British Columbia’s highbush blueberry sector. These initiatives are designed to generate actionable insights and tools that support grower decision-making, long-term sustainability, and competitiveness.
The research listed below reflects the types of projects supported by the Council and its partners. Specific project details (titles, objectives, partners, timelines) will be confirmed and published once approved by the Council.
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Growers
Ongoing Research Supporting BC Blueberry Growers
The BC Blueberry Council funds and collaborates on research projects that address key production, pest, disease, varietal, quality, and industry challenges specific to British Columbia’s highbush blueberry sector. These initiatives are designed to generate actionable insights and tools that support grower decision-making, long-term sustainability, and competitiveness.
The research listed below reflects the types of projects supported by the Council and its partners. Specific project details (titles, objectives, partners, timelines) will be confirmed and published once approved by the Council.
How Projects Are Selected
Research priorities are guided by:
- Grower feedback and industry needs
- Emerging pest, disease, and environmental risks
- Opportunities to improve yield, quality, and production efficiency
- Potential to enhance market access and value chain competitiveness
Projects typically involve partnerships with academic institutions, government agencies, research organizations, and industry experts. Funding may come from grower levy dollars, provincial and federal investment programs, and collaborative research initiatives.
Current Project Categories
The BC Blueberry Council supports research across several important areas. Approved project listings will be inserted under these headings:
Pest & Disease Management
AResearch aimed at understanding, diagnosing, and mitigating risks from insects, fungal and bacterial diseases, and pathogens that affect crop health.
Genetics & Cultivar Development
Work to evaluate, develop, and select blueberry germplasm and cultivars that are better adapted to BC climates, resistant to key stresses, and supportive of higher yields and quality.
Fruit Quality & Postharvest Handling
Projects focused on improving biochemical quality at harvest and maintaining quality through storage, handling, and packaging.
Integrated Pest Management & Ecology
Studies to improve monitoring tools, control strategies, and biological alternatives for pests such as spotted wing drosophila and other arthropods.
Education & Training
eLearning, Workshops & Webinars
Access flexible learning opportunities designed for growers at every stage.
- Online eLearning modules
- In‑person and virtual workshops and webinars
- Mobile‑first Blueberry Field Guide
Crop Health & Food Safety
Stay informed with expert‑developed resources covering:
- Pest and disease identification
- Viruses and pathogens
- Pollination best practices
- Food safety requirements
- Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs)
Grower Alerts & Decision‑Making Tools
Live Grower Alerts
Receive timely alerts related to pest pressures, disease risks, urgent notices, and other issues impacting BC blueberry production.
Weather & Growing Conditions Dashboard
Access Fraser Valley–focused weather data and growing condition insights to support informed decisions throughout the growing season.
Digital & Farm Management Tools
Explore industry‑relevant digital tools and platforms that support farm planning and reporting, including informational and integrated links to tools such as Croptracker and AgPick.
Soil & Water Management
Strong soil health and responsible water use are key to long‑term productivity.
Resources include:
- Soil testing information and interpretation support
- Water licensing and irrigation guidance specific to British Columbia
Business, Assessments & Compliance
We support growers beyond the field by simplifying business processes and improving access to essential resources.
Business & Financial Resources
- Financial assistance and funding programs
- Business planning tools
- Trade and tariff resources
Assessments & Submissions
- Digital assessment forms for growers
- Digital poundage submissions for packers and handlers
- Loan registrations and claims
Reducing Red Tape
Learn about Council‑led efforts to streamline processes, reduce duplication, and support efficient compliance for BC growers.
Forms & Documents
Access required forms, templates, and supporting documents in one centralized location.
Women in Blueberries
Recognizing and supporting the contributions of women across the BC blueberry industry through leadership, initiatives, and shared experiences.
Grower Spotlights
Discover stories from blueberry farms across British Columbia, highlighting innovation, stewardship, and the people behind BC blueberries.
Yearly Grower Calendar
Stay organized throughout the season with a yearly calendar featuring key production periods, deadlines, industry events, and important dates for BC blueberry growers.
Working for BC Growers
The BC Blueberry Council works on behalf of growers to advance research, advocate for the industry, and strengthen the long‑term success of BC blueberries.
