Blues Update August 2026

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Topics in this issue of Blues Update:

From the Chair: Uniting for Our Future

By Teddy Koukoulis, NABC Chair 

This month, I hope you’ll join me in celebrating a major milestone: The passage of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) continuance referendum.  

Twenty-six years after NABC helped create USHBC, our industry has once again chosen to invest in our collective future. The impact USHBC has made through promotion and research is indisputable, and having this momentum secured for the years ahead is a win for everyone.

Thank you to everyone who made their voice heard and voted to keep our industry moving forward. 

Let’s keep the momentum going – together – united for a successful, enduring future. 

With that in mind, I hope you’ll join me at The 2026 Blueberry Convention in Monterey, Sept. 22-25, to learn more about our plans and help shape what’s next for our industry. 

BREAKING: Court Rules DOL’s H-2A Wage Rule Unlawful

On Wednesday, August 26, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, Fresno Division, ruled that the Department of Labor’s (DOL) October 2025 Interim Final Rule (IFR) establishing the current Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) methodology is unlawful. As you may recall, NABC joined an amicus brief in support of the IFR.

The information below reflects our preliminary review of the court’s ruling. NABC counsel is currently conducting a comprehensive legal analysis, which we will share as soon as possible.

The decision in United Farm Workers v. U.S. Department of Labor follows last week’s hearing on UFW’s motion for summary judgement. While the court ruled against DOL on the legality of the IFR, it declined to immediately vacate the current wage rates in order to avoid widespread disruption to agricultural employers. As a result, the current AEWRs remain in effect temporarily, while DOL develops a replacement methodology. 

Preliminary Takeaways for H-2A Employers

Current wage rates remain temporarily in effect: The court declined to immediately vacate the current IFR wage rates. Existing AEWRs stay in place temporarily to avoid widespread market disruption while DOL develops a replacement methodology.  

Potential backpay liability: Employers face prospective backpay risk. DOL must formally notify employers within seven days that they may be required to issue wage adjustment payments to H-2A workers and corresponding U.S. farmworkers if the newly calculated AEWRs end up being higher than current rates.  

Scope of the backpay window: Backpay obligations will apply to any labor performed during the “backpay period” – from the date of DOL’s formal notice until the date new AEWRs are officially published.  

Expectation of higher future AEWRs: The court struck down several key mechanisms the IFR used to lower wages, including the two-tier skill system, the wage deduction for employer-provided housing, reliance on farm contractor OEWS data and the “greater than 50%” job assignment rule.  

Pending Next Steps: DOL must promptly create a compliant wage methodology and report back to the court with a timeline. Final decisions regarding retroactive wage adjustments will be decided after the new AEWRs are generated.

The ruling significantly increases uncertainty for agricultural employers and makes a legislative solution even more important. Chair G.T. Thompson’s Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act (SAWA), which NABC supports, would put key H-2A reforms into statute. This decision further underscores the urgency of advancing SAWA and securing a lasting legislative solution to the AEWR.

For now, the most important point for employers is that the current AEWRs remain in effect.  

Again, this is a preliminary review of the ruling and potential implications. NABC counsel is reviewing the decision in detail, and we will provide a more substantive legal analysis and guidance as soon as possible.

What’s Next for the Farm Bill

Earlier this month, the Senate Agriculture Committee recessed, rather than adjourned, consideration of the Farm Bill following an 11-10 procedural vote. The decision to recess was a deliberate procedural maneuver that effectively holds the vote open and allows the committee to pick up where it left off after the August recess.

Senators Mitch McConnell and Tommy Tuberville were absent from the markup. The expectation is that, with both senators present when the committee reconvenes, Republicans will have enough votes to report the bill favorably out of committee.

That, however, is only one step in the process. Republicans and Democrats will ultimately need to reach an agreement on the bill’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provisions, particularly the timeline for implementing the requirement that states share in the cost of SNAP benefits, to secure enough votes to pass a Farm Bill on the Senate floor. As a result, the version reported out of committee is unlikely to be the version ultimately brought to the floor.

The best-case scenario is that lawmakers reach a compromise on the SNAP cost-share provisions and the Farm Bill is attached to must-pass legislation during the lame-duck session. From there, the Senate and House bills would need to go to conference to resolve differences between the two versions before a final Farm Bill can be enacted.

For the blueberry industry, the additional time provides another opportunity for NABC to continue advocating for key Farm Bill priorities that remain under consideration.

NABC worked closely with our association partners and the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance ahead of the markup to support several amendments important to blueberry growers and the broader specialty crop industry.

Specialty Crop Economic Assistance

Senator Ben Ray Luján developed an amendment that would require USDA to use the specialty crop emergency payment framework for future ad hoc farm payments to specialty crop producers. The amendment was not offered and remains available for consideration when the committee reconvenes.

Instead, Senator Luján offered a similar amendment that paired the permanent framework with $5 billion in new economic assistance for specialty crop producers. Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar and Senator Adam Schiff spoke in support of the proposal, which ultimately failed on a 12-11 party-line vote.

The debate provided an important opportunity to elevate the economic challenges facing specialty crop producers. Senator Luján even specifically highlighted blueberries in his remarks.

Protecting Specialty Crop Programs 

The committee adopted an amendment from Senator Schiff affirming the definition of specialty crops across several important Farm Bill programs and authorities, including the Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops (TASC) program and federal crop insurance. A similar amendment was adopted in the House Farm Bill.

Improving Disaster Block Grants 

NABC also supported an amendment from Senator Schiff that would establish greater transparency and guardrails around USDA’s use of disaster block grants. The amendment was not offered and remains available for future consideration.

The current Senate bill would give USDA permanent authority to distribute congressionally appropriated disaster assistance through state block grants. NABC and other agricultural organizations have raised concerns based on the implementation of recent disaster programs and support greater transparency and consistency in determining when and where block grants are used.

NABC also joined agricultural partners in opposing amendments that could negatively affect growers or industry programs.

Pesticide Labeling

An amendment from Senator Cory Booker addressing federal pesticide labeling requirements and state failure-to-warn claims failed on a 12-11 party-line vote. NABC has been actively engaged on this issue and previously joined agricultural partners in supporting federal preemption of state pesticide labeling requirements.

Restrictions and Oversight of USDA Research and Promotion Programs

A separate amendment proposed additional restrictions and oversight requirements for federal research and promotion or “checkoff” programs. The proposal would have direct implications for the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), the blueberry industry’s federal research and promotion program that NABC helped establish 26 years ago. Among other provisions, the amendment would restrict certain checkoff boards from contracting with organizations that lobby on agricultural policy and impose additional oversight, contracting and reporting requirements. NABC joined other agricultural organizations in opposing the amendment, which was not offered during the markup.

What Comes Next

NABC will use the additional time before the committee reconvenes to continue working with Senate Agriculture Committee members and our agricultural partners to advocate for provisions that strengthen disaster assistance, protect specialty crop programs and address the needs of blueberry growers.

We will keep members updated as the Senate Farm Bill process moves forward.

Celebrating Blueberries, an American Original

Amid the celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary and National Blueberry Month in July, NABC President Kasey Cronquist took the opportunity to highlight a uniquely American story: the blueberry.

In an op-ed published in the Washington Examiner, Cronquist connected the blueberry’s distinctly American origins with the ingenuity of U.S. farmers who transformed a native wild fruit into the worldwide blueberry industry we know today. He also highlighted the important role blueberries can play in the Make America Healthy Again movement, as a nutrient-dense food backed by decades of health and nutrition research.

The op-ed is part of NABC’s ongoing effort to elevate the blueberry industry’s significant investment in health and nutrition research through the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council and advocate for nutrition policies that create more opportunity to increase consumer demand.

Cronquist writes, “As America celebrates 250 years, the blueberry offers a fitting example of American agriculture at its best: rooted in our history, advanced through innovation and ingenuity, and helping build a healthier future.”

Read the full article here. 

Blueberries and Ice Cream: A Sweet Capitol Hill Tradition

For the third year in a row, the NABC partnered with the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) to celebrate National Blueberry Month and National Ice Cream Month with our annual Blueberry Ice Cream Social on Capitol Hill.

The ice cream social has quickly become a highly anticipated Capitol Hill tradition, with congressional staff looking forward to stopping by for a scoop before heading home, giving NABC an opportunity to keep blueberries front and center with policymakers and their staff in a fun and memorable way. 

NABC extends a special thank you to members Scenic Fruit Company and Meduri Farms for generously supplying the blueberries that helped make the event possible, and to NMPF for continuing to be a great partner in bringing this event to Capitol Hill each year.

But blueberries weren’t just an afternoon treat. We bookended the congressional workday with blueberries!

Earlier that morning, NABC partnered with Mondelēz International for a breakfast giveaway, handing out belVita Blueberry Breakfast Biscuits and Blueberry CLIF Bars to congressional staffers on their way into work. 

These events are part of NABC’s continued effort to keep blueberries visible on Capitol Hill, while building relationships with congressional offices. We look forward to continuing this Capitol Hill tradition, and serving up plenty more blueberries, in the years ahead.

Blueberry Smoothie Bikes Goes (Back) to D.C. for the Great American State Fair

This July, NABC and USHBC teamed up in Washington, D.C., to put blueberries front and center during the Great American State Fair on the National Mall.

Held as part of the celebration surrounding America’s 250th birthday, the Great American State Fair offered a unique opportunity to connect American agriculture, nutrition and the farm families who produce our food with thousands of visitors from across the country.

Throughout the fair, NABC and USHBC highlighted blueberries as an American original and a nutritious food that supports healthy eating. The councils shared recipe cards featuring a blueberry protein bar, giving fairgoers a simple and delicious way to incorporate more blueberries into their diets while reinforcing the industry’s broader message about the role of blueberries in supporting American health.

The celebration continued with a special Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Monday activation that took the blueberry smoothie bike to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services headquarters.

The activation provided a fun and highly visible way to connect blueberries with the national conversation around making America healthy again.

NABC Committee Applications Are Open Through Sept. 30

NABC is now accepting applications for committee appointments! Serving as a committee volunteer gives you a direct voice in guiding the programs, policies, and advocacy that keep the blueberry industry thriving.

We are recruiting passionate leaders across all experience levels for the following committees:

  • Awards
  • Bylaws
  • Finance
  • Government Affairs 
  • Trade Task Force
  • USDA Foods Procurement Task Force

Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your involvement and help steer our industry’s future. 

Review the appointment details and apply before the Sept. 30 deadline. Terms begin Jan. 1, 2027. 

Learn more and apply here. 

USDA Informational Meeting for New Jersey Growers

Leanne Strickland of My Ag Consulting (MAC) will lead an informational meeting on USDA farm programs for New Jersey blueberry growers on Sept. 1 at 9 a.m. at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension Building, 6260 Old Harding Way in Mays Landing, New Jersey. 

Topics include: 

  • The Supplemental Disaster Revenue Program (SDRP) for disaster years 2023 and 2024. 
  • Tree Assistance Program (TAP) plant replacement.
  • Payment limitation counseling.
  • FSA farm enrollment.

Strickland will be available after the event to answer questions. Farm visits with Strickland can be scheduled by calling 912-288-8303.

Convention Corner: Economic Report With David Magaña

We recently introduced our first keynote speaker for The 2026 Blueberry Convention, Sept. 22-25 in Monterey – giving you one more reason to attend.

You’ll want to be there to hear from David Magaña, senior vice president and senior analyst for RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness. During his session, “Shifting Rhythms in the Economic Forces Shaping the Future of Blueberries,” Magaña will deliver a forward-looking perspective on the trends shaping profitability, competitiveness and long-term opportunity across the blueberry value chain. He’ll also explore the shifting rhythms shaping the business today – from macroeconomics to production to inflation, global supply dynamics, trade flows and evolving consumer demand — and how these forces are composing a new outlook for the industry’s future. 

You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of the economic landscape ahead and what it may mean for growers, marketers, suppliers and industry leaders planning for the future. As an added resource, Magaña will provide a short summary of the session’s key points, giving attendees a useful takeaway to share with their teams after the convention. 

Don’t miss the chance to hear from one of the industry’s premier economic experts and connect with leaders from across the global blueberry community.

REGISTER NOW

Schedule Highlights

Beyond the amazing content you expect at convention, this year’s event will feature these not-to-be-missed opportunities:  

Keynote and Awards Breakfast 

Join us for a special morning of inspiration and celebration as we gather for a featured keynote and recognize outstanding leaders in the blueberry industry. During this breakfast, NABC will present its annual awards, including the Elizabeth White Award honoring women in blueberries.

*NEW* Committee Forums

Committee Forums are new interactive sessions designed to connect you with the work of USHBC’s Promotion and Industry Engagement Committees, highlighting current projects and creating space for industry engagement and discussion.

NABC Crop Report 

Hear crop updates from growing regions across the blueberry industry, giving you a timely look at production conditions and the current state of the season.

Governance Meetings 

Participate in the USHBC Council meeting, the NABC Board meeting and the NABC United Blueberry Advisory Committee to get up-to-date on important industry topics, discuss priorities and help guide the organization’s work on behalf of the blueberry industry.

Tech Tuesday 

Explore emerging and advancing technologies shaping the future of the blueberry industry during this special education session organized by the BerrySmart Technology Task Force. Over the course of two hours, attendees will gain insight into innovations, tools and ideas designed to support on-farm efficiency, data-driven decision-making and long-term industry progress.

Meet, Eat & Explore 

Enjoy a relaxed, open lunch in the heart of the convention action. With seating throughout the common areas near Blueberry Lane and Blueberry Row, it’s the perfect chance to grab a bite, connect with exhibitors and spend time with fellow attendees. 

Blueberry Night at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

You’ll be talking about this one long after the convention ends! Join us for a one-of-a-kind strolling dinner as the blueberry industry takes over the aquarium. Enjoy chef-curated food stations, coastal views and access to incredible exhibits — all in a vibrant setting designed for connection and celebration.

Check out the convention schedule to see everything we have planned! 

Meet Our Exhibitors 

Blueberry Lane and Blueberry Row are SOLD OUT! Here’s who you’ll be able to connect with at the convention:   

  • A & B Packing
  • Autofruit
  • BeeFlow
  • BeeHero
  • Bonsai Robotics
  • Burro
  • Cailu
  • Clean Ag Resources
  • Crawford Packaging
  • Ellips
  • Fall Creek
  • Fine Field 
  • Harvest Hosts
  • Highland Packaging Solutions
  • Innov8.ag
  • Jet PreCooler
  • Koppert
  • Meyer Optical Sorting
  • Monte Package Company
  • Multivac
  • NNZ Inc.
  • NorthScope
  • Opti-Harvest
  • Orchard Robotics
  • Oregon Blueberry
  • Oxbo International 
  • Pacific Distributing Inc.
  • Pacific Injection Molding
  • Pinion
  • Privi Life Sciences USA
  • Punchbowl Automation
  • Rainmaker
  • Reemoon US
  • Skysense
  • Skyshield Solutions 
  • SWAN Systems
  • Thunderbird Plastics
  • Tomra
  • True Organic Products
  • Unitec
  • WECO
  • WiseConn
  • Yamaha Agriculture

Contact Mandy Boarman at [email protected] to learn about all exhibitor and sponsorship options.

Get Registered!  

Register today to save your seat at the largest gathering of the blueberry industry. 

More Ways to Stay in Monterey

The 2026 Blueberry Convention will take place at the Hyatt Regency Monterey. While the deadline for our group rate has passed, you can contact the Hyatt Regency Monterey directly to check availability and pricing. Be sure to mention the NABC Convention!

With strong interest in this year’s convention, we’ve expanded our housing options throughout Monterey. See the full list on the “Travel Information” tab on our Blueberry Convention webpage. 

Unlocking the Power of Blueberry Industry Data

Registration is officially open for the 2026 Blueberry Data & Intelligence Summit.

Held in conjunction with The 2026 Blueberry Convention in Monterey, California, this dynamic day-and-a-half event will take place Sept. 21 (3-6 p.m.) and Sept. 22 (7:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) at the Hyatt Regency Monterey. 

Join fellow industry leaders for forward-looking conversations on the data, technology and intelligence driving our future. Be there to:

  • Experience a live walkthrough of the latest version of the BerrySmart Insights platform.
  • Discuss how AI is transforming market intelligence.
  • Explore new tools and forecasting capabilities, and help shape the next generation of industry data resources. 
  • Connect with fellow leaders committed to building a smarter, more informed blueberry industry.

Seating is limited. Register for the Blueberry Data & Intelligence Summit today. 

REGISTER NOW

Registration for the summit is separate from the 2026 Blueberry Convention. If you plan to attend both events, please register for each event individually.

If you’re attending both events, be sure to adjust your hotel check-in date! Email Stacy Plarr at [email protected] for assistance.