VANCOUVER, B.C. - After the earliest start in history, proceeded by hot, dry weather, the Blueberry Council is anticipating that the 2015 British Columbia will close out strong.

"While our 800 growers faced weather challenges this season, we remain confident that British Columbia continues to be a strong producer of highbush blueberries, and we're expecting consistent supply into early-September," Debbie Etsell, Executive Director of the British Columbia Blueberry Council, said in a press release. "The hot weather we've experienced this season has resulted in our late harvest variety, Elliott, producing some of its sweetest berries ever."

British Columbia continue to be in the top category for highbush blueberry producers as the season comes to a close, according to the company. Overall, volumes are looking to come in at more than 68 million kilograms (150 million pounds), which is on par with last year.

The Blueberry Council continues to expand, according to the release, with an increase in available product allowing it to grow its marketing efforts overseas. This season China signed a trade agreement for access to British Columbia blueberries, coming at a time when demand in the country is high due to the product’s quality and health benefits.

Korean inspectors are also among those the company has visited as it continues its endeavor to create new demand for exports from the province.

British Columbia Blueberry Council