Lily Calderwood, wild blueberry specialist at University of Maine Cooperative Extension, is hosting in-person consultations in Waldoboro, Belfast, Ellsworth and Machias throughout March, April and May. 

According to the Extension, in a news release, the consultations are geared for producers of any size and experience, from those starting out with an overgrown wild blueberry field to veteran wild blueberry farmers. Possible discussion topics for each 90-minute session include field management, business planning, how to get started with a new field, expertise on a particular subject, and sharing ideas about research and education efforts. In addition to sharing specific expertise, Calderwood will also help farmers make connections to helpful resources. Field visits are also possible, however, developing a field management or business management plan requires focused time at a table with a computer and other resources.

Visit the program webpage for a full schedule and registration links to each location. If you need a reasonable accommodation, please contact Mary Michaud at mary.j.michaud@maine.edu or 207.581.3175. Receiving requests for accommodations at least 7 days before the program provides a reasonable amount of time to meet the request, however, all requests will be considered.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension: 

As a trusted resource for over 100 years, University of Maine Cooperative Extension has supported UMaine's land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and grow the food-based economy, focusing on aspects from production and processing to nutrition, food safety and food security. Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H which offers hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement and creates a positive environment where participants are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.