Blueberry Pollination in Maine

Many insect species are responsible for pollination of Maine's blueberry fields. Honey bee colonies are essential and Maine is the second largest importer of commercial bee hives for pollination. With increased colony rental rates, farmers are becoming aware of the many pollinating species that contribute to a successful blueberry harvest. Bumble bees, leaf cutter bees, and many other native species are essential for a sustainable pollination system. Researchers led by the University of Maine and University of Massachusetts are studying how to maintain a stable pollinator force to ensure everyone gets their slice of blueberry pie.

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I watched honey bees pollinating blueberries (known as myrtilles here in France) in the Pyrenees mountains this year, They were flying up from the valleys to an altitude of about 1800m (5850 ft). This was at a time in the spring when the snow had hardly melted.