Last week, growers Doug Krahmer and Mark Hurst visited USHBC headquarters. It was the first in-person meeting with USHBC staff in over a year. On this episode of “The Business of Blueberries,” we sit down with Doug and Mark for a conversation about what took place during these productive meetings, and the overall status of USBHC. 

Host Kasey Cronquist, president of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) and the North American Blueberry Council (NABC), is joined by Doug Krahmer, president of Berries Northwest in Oregon and a member of the NABC Finance Committee, and Mark Hurst, owner of Hurst Berry Farm in Oregon and a member of the USHBC Innovation & Technology Committee.

“Coming in, being able to see staff, see the open layout … better acquaint ourselves with the staff and their responsibilities … I think that is important for those of us who are members of these organizations.” - Mark Hurst

“Even though our industry has grown by leaps and bounds, our integrity is still there. We’re still hitting the high marks that we expect and it was great to see that. ” - Doug Krahmer

Topics covered include: 

• Recap of the day’s meetings and what it was like to meet in person again. 
• First impressions of the new USHBC offices in Folsom, California.
• Standout moments from meeting the USHBC staff. 

Crop Report

The Blueberry Crop Report is an update on crop conditions and markets throughout North and South America. In this episode, you’ll hear from Matt Macrie in New Jersey, Neil Moore in North Carolina, Derrin Wheeler in Georgia, Eric Stafne in Mississippi and Bill Steed in California. This was recorded on June 16, 2021.  

Marketing Boost

With National Blueberry Month just around the corner, it’s time to search for America’s Best Blueberry Pie Recipe! USHBC/NABC Vice President of Marketing and Communications Jennifer Sparks explains the contest for consumers, which includes a grand prize of $10,000! To request FREE flyers and/or postcards to promote the contest at your operation, fill out this simple form and we’ll ship them to you at no cost. The blueberry pie contest is open now through July 12, so order your materials today. Digital versions are also available!

Reminder: Complete Our ‘Business of Blueberries’ Survey

This is the last week to share your feedback with us! This brief survey is your chance to share what you like about the podcast, what we could do better and what topics you’d like us to explore further. Plus, by completing the survey, you’ll be entered to win a “Business of Blueberries” YETI tumbler!