BC produces the most delicious blueberries found anywhere.
The BC Blueberry Council
The BC Blueberry Council is the umbrella organization that represents all blueberry growers in the province. Our mission is to encourage the growth and development of the BC blueberry industry for the benefit of growers through promotion, research and education. Research is conducted to improve production efficiency, sustainability and product quality.
The Industry
The BC blueberry industry is growing rapidly, approximately 12,000 acres of farmland in our province are devoted to growing this delicious fruit. With production of approximately 63 million pounds in 2004, British Columbia is now the second largest producer of highbush blueberries in the world.
BC produces the most delicious blueberries found anywhere. This is because of our fertile soils and ideal growing conditions. The warm summer days and relatively cool nights result in top quality berries with good flavour and storage capabilities.
Harvesting BC Blueberries
Harvest of blueberries will begin in some areas (dependent on variety) by early July with all areas in production by the third week in July. The heaviest harvest period for BC blueberries is during August - Blueberry Month. Depending on variety and area there can be fresh BC blueberries available until the October (fall varieties).
Distribution
BC blueberries are shipped to many international destinations including the United States, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia, the United Kingdom and Europe.
The blueberry industry is part of the agricultural sector that supports many BC communities. This industry is of significant value to the BC economy. Other businesses or individuals that benefit as a result of the blueberry industry include banking, accounting, insurance, real estate, shopping centres, car and truck sales, agri-businesses, processing plants and farm workers.