New England Vegetable & Berry Growers Association
The New England Vegetable & Berry Growers Association (NEV&BGA) is the oldest vegetable growers association in America. We support and promote the vegetable and berry industry in New England. You are invited to become a member.
PO Box 882, Essex MA 01929
Event Postponed!
Due to the volume of snow on the ground, and more in the forecast, the February 25th Blueberry Pruning Clinic at Ward’s Berry Farm will be on March 31st, 2026
The March 4th Pruning event at Cold Pring Orchards Has also been postponed until April 7th, 2026
2026 Blueberry Pruning Clinics
The New England Vegetable and Berry Growers’ Association and New England Cooperative Extension are excited to present two blueberry pruning clinics for 2026. These hands on clinics will offer both the basics for newer growers, and a refresher and refining of skills for seasoned growers. Instructors will address how to:
- Assess and manage new and old plantings
- Prune for high yields
- Canopy management
- Aisle and weed control considerations
Ward’s Berry Farm, Sharon MA February 25th
Cold Spring Orchard, Belchertown MA March 3rd
Farmers at the Table: Virtual Advocacy Training for Ag Day at the State House
Join us for one of two virtual advocacy trainings for farmers participating in Massachusetts Ag Day at the State House
Our Mission
In these days of rapidly changing conditions in the growing, shipping, and selling of vegetables and berries, it is important that growers have an organization that will keep them informed. The New England Vegetable & Berry Growers Association (NEV&BGA) is a strong and progressive organization that offers wide-ranging initiatives supporting efforts to maintain the well-being of the industry throughout New England.
The Association currently provides research grants to New England researchers doing practical work to support the industry. NEV&BGA also provides support for Extension Specialists.
KEY INITIATIVES
Two meetings each year keep members engaged and informed on developments in the field. Prominent growers share their experiences, and Research and Extension personnel from Universities and industry report on culture, pest management, and marketing. Information of benefit to New England growers has been presented by successful growers from around the country. The Association co-sponsors the biennial New England Vegetable and Berry Conference and Trade show.
The Association has worked closely with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and others to promote the vegetable and small fruit industry to the public and through positive legislation.
Many growers enjoy the networking opportunities the Association provides. Meetings are a great forum to talk to prominent growers, hear new ideas, and to benefit from the great pool of knowledge and experience among members.
The Association supports research at New England State Universities and has provided financial support for the development of better adapted varieties. Through these efforts, over 25 varieties have been developed, including Waltham Butternut Squash (an All America award winner) and many more. The Association was instrumental in developing the Commonwealth Quality program which is a practical alternative to GAP for small to medium sized growers. Current research projects include: vegetable and berry variety trials; plastic mulches and other means of extending the growing season; and evaluation of alternative crops, cover crops, and IPM studies.
The Association makes awards to individuals who have provided outstanding service to the vegetable and berry industries of New England. The Robert E. Young Award is given to individuals in recognition of their service to vegetable and berry producers, and the Guy L. Paris Award honors those who have provided leadership in marketing our products and promoting the industry.