Wild Blueberry Research Centre

“Integrated Systems Approach to Improving Wild Blueberry Physiology,
Protection, and Production”

The wild blueberry is a truly unique, naturally occurring, and valuable agricultural commodity that has come to the forefront of the agricultural industry in Atlantic Canada. Unlike most agricultural crops, the wild blueberry industry is based on the harvest of intensively managed wild stands. The blueberry plants grow in a complex community of other plants and micro-organisms which may competitively or cooperatively influence each other. The most significant challenge facing researchers and producers is to understand the complex dynamics of the blueberry ecosystem, particularly the environmental impact of the commercial management of these areas.

With (1) this internationally unique commodity being of increasing value to the economy of Atlantic Canada, (2) an increasing demand for highly qualified personnel , and (3) an increasing number of researchers attempting to meet the demands of the industry, a need for improved facilities was identified by the Wild Blueberry Producers Association of Nova Scotia (WBPANS), the Nova Scotia Wild Blueberry Institute (NSWBI), the Nova Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC), Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), and the wild blueberry industry. Subsequently, a project titled “Integrated Systems Approach to Improving Wild Blueberry Physiology, Protection, and Production” was submitted in December 1998, and received approval for funding in February 1999.