Blueberry season off to bountiful start in state

28 June, 2004
 

PORTLAND (AP) -- Blueberry season in Oregon is off to an early, and promising, start.

Bryan Ostlund, administrator of the Oregon Blueberry Commission, told the Statesman Journal that growers are expecting a record harvest of more than 30 million pounds. That could help make up for last year's disappointing harvest of 23.5 million pounds.

Last year, fresh berries were selling for about $1 per pound, and processed berries were about 60 cents per pound, Ostlund said.

Studies suggesting health benefits associated with eating blueberries, including better memory and vision, have helped the industry.

Japan continues to be a strong market for fresh Oregon blueberries, but other products, such as dried blueberries, are experiencing good sales.