OF MAINE
5784 York Complex , Suite 52 , Orono , Maine 04469-5784 TEL : 207-581-1475 FAX : 207-581-3499
July 6 , 2021
To Whom it may concern :
We enthusiastically support the designation of the Downeast region as the first National Heritage Area ( NHA ) in Maine . The Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine ’ s ( Commission ) goal is conserving and promoting the welfare of Maine and the wild blueberry agricultural industry . Over our 70-year history of promotion and research and development of Maine ’ s native berry crop we have identified the wild blueberry as globally unique in promotional advantages and sustainable practices .
Maine growers and processors produce ~ 70 million pounds of berries annually ( 5 year average 2016-20 USDA-NASS ) but a market oversupply of cultivated blueberries and U . S . imports from Canada drove prices down and did little to alleviate production costs outpacing grower income . With the NHA designation we expect national recognition of the history and culture of wild blueberries in Maine and added support for the industry to differentiate wild blueberries in the marketplace and in the eyes of the consumer .
Developing a NHA in Downeast Maine has the potential to greatly accelerate agritourism and economic activities while benefitting a region that is central to the sustainability and heritage of wild blueberry agriculture . From 2012 to 2017 , dollars on Maine farms generated by direct sales increased 53 % from $ 24.7 million to $ 38.7 million , while dollars generated from other agritourism activities grew 268 % from $ 1.8 million to $ 6.6 million ( 2017 USDA Census of Agriculture ). Maine ’ s wild blueberry farms are just beginning to reap the benefits of agritourism . With the launch of the 2021 Wild Blueberry Weekend promotion , farms are offering opportunities that include on farm tours , U-Pick , and overnight farm stays . Some farms report that in down years , revenue from agritourism exceeds that from harvest .
A NHA will create a network of significant geographic , ecological , historical and natural landmarks that will enhance the community and the economy by educating Maine and visitors about one of few wild native crops that is commercially grown in the US . This differentiation of Maine ’ s wild indigenous blueberry from cultivated blueberries grown worldwide is critically important to the viability of Maine ’ s economy .
THE OFFICIAL BERRIES OF MAINE
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