SWIFT CURRENT, Sask. – Saskatchewan saskatoon berry growers have struck a deal with Federated Co-operatives Ltd. to supply 40,000 pounds of fruit to stores across Western Canada.
Five producers were chosen from different regions, from dryland and irrigated acreages, to ensure supply and minimize risk, said Sandy Purdy of Prairie Berries at Keeler, Sask., who spearheaded the marketing.
Working with other growers is central to Sandy and husband Ken’s marketing strategy of “spreading the opportunity.”
“If the industry does well, we will do well,” said Sandy.
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Irrigation is central to their success.
“If we can control the variables in the fruit industry, we’re more likely to have a crop in a dry year,” said Purdy, who grew 30,000 pounds of berries on 10 irrigated acres.
“It’s a control mechanism. Without it, there’s a lot more risk.”
Purdy said strong returns and high value crops make good use of irrigated farmers’ investment. She compared her returns of $2,040 per acre of berries with less than $200 per acre of canola.
The saskatoons are frozen and sell for $2.50 to $3 a pound wholesale. Shoppers can pick up a 300 gram bag for around $3.50 at a Co-op store.
