The Hancock County and Washington County Soil & Water Conservation Districts, in conjunction with the USDA NRCS and blueberry farmer Laura Flannery, are happy to announce the upcoming second annual “Better Soil, Better Blueberries” Field Day! This informative event will feature a panel of industry experts and hands-on demonstrations aimed at improving soil health and blueberry production. There will also be members of various agencies to discuss available programs and opportunities for blueberry growers. The event will be presented by the Washington and Hancock County SWCDs, and hosted by Laura Flannery at her farm in Charlotte. Event Topics and Experts: UMaine Research and Experience Mulching Wild Blueberry Fields - Dr. Lily Calderwood, UMaine Cooperative Extension Blueberry Irrigation Basics and NRCS Assistance Opportunities - Chris Phinney, USDA-NRCS Opportunities for organic blueberry growers - Chris Grigsby , MOFGA What Your Blueberry Tax Dollars Do For You: an overview of the Wild Blueberry Commission - Laura Flannery, Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine NRCS Programs and Technical Assistance for Producers and Landowners - Ashley Martone & Chuck Penney, USDA NRCS FSA Programs and Loans - FSA leadership Free on-site pH Soil Testing - Mark Whiting, Hancock County SWCD Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the latest conservation practices, organic growing techniques, and financial assistance programs available to blueberry growers. The event will also feature a Q&A session and a hands-on demonstration of full field mulching. Lunch will be provided. This event is open to all blueberry growers, from small-scale to commercial operations. Don't miss this chance to improve your soil health and berry production while networking with fellow growers and industry experts. For more information or to RSVP, please call 271-4010 or email wacomeswcd@gmail.com