Wild blueberry farms across Maine suffer as climate change upends growing seasons

Wild blueberry farms across Maine are facing significant challenges as climate change disrupts traditional growing seasons, resulting in reduced yields and increased costs for farmers. Severe drought and rising temperatures have caused premature leaf color changes and berry shriveling, leading to substantial crop losses. At Crystal Spring Farm near Brunswick, owner Seth Kroeck reported that the 2025 harvest was nearly a total loss, with only about 7 percent of the expected yield. Over the past seven years, the farm has experienced three nearly complete crop failures, illustrating a troubling trend for the industry. Maine is the primary source of wild blueberries in the United States, producing nearly 88 million pounds of fruit in 2023 and generating $361 million in revenue. Unlike cultivated blueberries, wild blueberries grow on sandy, gravelly soils that are difficult to irrigate, making them particularly vulnerable to drought conditions. The fruit is smaller and more flavorful than cultivated varieties and is typically packed and frozen rather than sold fresh. The wild blueberry industry is deeply intertwined with Maine’s identity and economy, serving as a backbone for many small farmers and local communities. Farmers like Kroeck, who has managed his 72-acre farm for years, note that the blueberry patches have existed for millennia, maintained first by Indigenous communities and later by generations of growers. However, the increasing frequency and severity of adverse weather events linked to climate change are forcing farmers to invest in costly measures such as additional irrigation and mulch to protect their crops. These expenses add financial strain to small operations already grappling with unpredictable harvests. The challenges faced by Maine’s wild blueberry farms highlight broader concerns about the impact of climate change on regional agriculture and traditional food systems. As weather patterns continue to shift, farmers must adapt to maintain production and preserve the cultural heritage tied to this iconic crop. The situation underscores the need for sustainable solutions and support for agricultural communities confronting the realities of a changing climate.