Agronomy and Crop Sciences Commons^™

A Characterization Of Maine Blueberry Growers In 2010, Anya Rose

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

A survey was sent to 343 lowbush blueberry growers in Maine with a response rate of 29%. Growers were asked questions about their management practices, pesticide use, priorities, decision-making influences, and beliefs about pesticide safety. Respondents categorized themselves into one of four categories: Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Conventional, Organic, and No-Spray. Analyses were conducted to examine factors that were linked to these four categories. A major goal of this study was to determine differences and similarities between growers of different management styles, and to define each category by the practices and beliefs of its members. Toxicity ratings were also calculated …