Wild Berry Conference 2007

The two day event was held on September 5 & 6, 2007 at the Northern Light Inn in L’Anse-au-Clair.  It provided a learning opportunity for all participants and access to human resources in an attempt to improve the knowledge and skills of those currently involved in the wild berry industry.  The 2007 conference supported the activities of the Northern Agrifoods Development Strategy.

This was an opportunity for harvesters, researchers, producers, government representatives and individuals to identify possible initiatives for development within the agrifoods industry.  In addition it will enhance human resources development in the fields of research, value added processing, marketing, health benefits, trial identification and development, and cooperative approach in developing the wild berry industry.

The wild berry conference achieved the following objectives;

• Identified opportunities for the Southern Labrador Development Association peat bog farm
• Brought together berry researchers (national and international), producers, and harvesters to discuss opportunities in wild berry production
• Identification of new market opportunities
• Transfer of information from industry representatives and government officials to local businesses and economic development groups
• Showcased the natural health benefits for the wild berries harvested in the Labrador Straits
• Created an opportunity for harvesters, buyers, and economic development groups to discuss supply and demand issues for all berry types, and
• Discussed with individuals from other countries who are experimenting with the cultivation of cloud berries and lingonberries to see if possible research opportunities exist in the Labrador Straits.