ELLSWORTH — University of Maine Cooperative Extension will host the annual Wild Blueberry Conference on Wednesday, Feb. 7, from 8:15 a.m. - 3:45 p.m., at the Moore Community Center, 125 State St., Ellsworth. A virtual attendance option is also available.

The conference theme is “Moving Toward Profitability Using Collaboration and Science.” The full-day event brings together experts, researchers, growers and industry leaders to discuss the latest developments and innovations in wild blueberry production. People of all backgrounds are encouraged to attend, from those who have recently purchased land to veteran producers, according to UMaine Extension, in a news release.

Sessions will cover profitable farm case studies for fresh pack and organic production, as well as crop and pest management research. The morning will wrap up with a session dedicated to grower discussion and lessons from the lobster industry. The Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine will present a State of the Industry update. A catered lunch is included. Presenters include UMaine Extension specialists, growers and researchers.

"We are delighted to once again host the UMaine Wild Blueberry Conference and provide a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration within the wild blueberry industry," said Lily Calderwood, Extension wild blueberry specialist and assistant professor of horticulture. “While we encourage in-person participation, we understand that not everyone may be able to attend the conference. The virtual attendance option allows individuals to join the conference remotely and benefit from valuable insights that will contribute to the continued success of the wild blueberry industry."

The conference is “pay what you can,” with a suggested donation of $30. Proceeds support Extension’s wild blueberry programming. Two pesticide credits will be available for full-day attendance. Registration is required. Visit the program webpage for a full agenda and to register.

For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Mary Michaud at 207.581.3175 or mary.j.michaud@maine.edu.

About 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.