Patchy rain finally made its way through Oregon and while I don’t like the thought of what it’s doing for the early, early strawberries that will be coming off this weekend it’s been so, so dry and much needed.

If you are an Oregon strawberry grower, you would have received notice recently of a proposed rule change to remove the organic exemption from the Oregon Strawberry Commission assessment collection.

It is important to observe plants for recurring virus symptoms, especially in fields that have seen a steady decline in production over the past few years, as signs of virus symptoms are starting to emerge. Additionally, we want to remind everyone that BC, WA, and OR have virus surveillance and testing programs available, all sponsored by their respective blueberry councils and commissions.

The lack of temperature spikes and abundance of sunshine hours in a day creates ideal conditions for bees to pollinate effectively. However, there is some concern about excessive bloom overlap, not allowing the bees to keep up. I think it’s fine but time will tell.

I thought it would be important to notify folks on the changes happening at the local USDA-ARS. At least four berry related scientists and numerous administrative and maintenance support staff are no longer with the organization

Let’s talk hive strength. After hearing some overwintering concerns in hives this year with many colonies appearing weaker than normal, it’s important to keep a closer eye on bee activity.

Meetings and field work collide. We’ve got bees going into Eastern Washington and Southern Oregon fields. Word on the street is that honeybees didn’t overwinter so well this year.

Blueberry virus surveillance initiatives are in full swing. British Columbia has maintained a longstanding surveillance program supported by the BC Blueberry Council.