Basic Blueberry Farming Technology Training Launched
Gokseong County Supports New Farmers with Essential Cultivation Skills and Practical Guidance
Gokseong County held a "Basic Blueberry Farming Technology Training" on the 19th at the main courtyard of the Gokseong County Agricultural Technology Center, attended by 57 trainees. Provided by Gokseong County
Gokseong County, led by County Governor Cho Sangrae, announced on August 20 that it is operating a "Basic Blueberry Farming Technology Training" program to provide new farmers with essential blueberry cultivation techniques and agricultural information.
The training, targeting 50 beginner farmers and prospective growers, began on August 19 and will be held over five sessions until September 16. The sessions take place at the Gokseong County Agricultural Technology Center and at leading local farms.
The first session was held on August 19 at the main courtyard of the Gokseong County Agricultural Technology Center. A total of 57 trainees attended, and blueberry agricultural master Kim Sinjung served as the instructor. The lecture covered topics such as trends in the blueberry industry, orchard establishment methods, and variety characteristics, addressing all aspects of cultivation techniques. Trainees broadened their understanding of blueberry farming through the instructor's extensive field experience and practical advice.
This training is expected to provide practical support for farmers who were interested in blueberries but found it difficult to start farming, as well as those who experienced trial and error during the cultivation process. It is also anticipated to greatly assist farmers by strengthening their cultivation capabilities and providing timely technical support.
Currently, in Gokseong, blueberries are cultivated by 119 farms over 38.5 hectares (21 hectares of facilities and 17.5 hectares of open fields). This year, the shipment volume is expected to reach 280 tons, with a value of 7.2 billion KRW. Of these, 43 farms covering 16.4 hectares are participating in the joint shipment association. Since starting with 20 hectares and 2.6 billion KRW in 2017, the cultivation area and production value have steadily increased, reaching 38.5 hectares and 6.1 billion KRW last year.
This year, the county is implementing a 750 million KRW quality improvement support project to ensure the stable growth of the blueberry industry. Through this initiative, it aims to improve cultivation conditions and promote high-quality production. Additionally, the county is providing seven annual sessions of cultivation technology training and on-site consulting, offering farmers customized guidance that combines theory and practice.
The county aims to expand cultivation to 50 hectares and achieve a production value of 10 billion KRW by 2028. To become the nation's leading long-term shipping region, capable of shipments over seven months from March to September, the county also plans to focus on quality control and expanding sales channels.
A county official stated, "We are systematically implementing the entire process, from basic training to quality improvement support. We hope this training will help new farmers gain confidence and establish a foundation for high-quality blueberry production."
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