HALIFAX: Months of persistent drought across Atlantic Canada have severely impacted wild blueberry farmers in both New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, leading to a disastrous harvest season.
As the 2024 harvest nears its end, the total yield is reported to be 70% lower than the average of the last three years, according to Donald Arseneault, General Manager of the NB Blueberry Industry Group. Arseneault noted that the industry faced an additional setback when the provincial government mandated a temporary halt to harvesting due to widespread wildfires.
The crisis is forcing difficult decisions for local producers. Arseneault indicated that some of the province’s 175 wild blueberry farmers are now considering selling their land, and they are seeking financial compensation from the provincial Liberal government to cover their losses.
The wild blueberry, or lowbush blueberry, is a crucial economic driver for the region. Statistics Canada data shows that in 2024, lowbush blueberries were Canada’s second most valuable fruit export, generating $313 million in revenue.
