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Since 1960, when we suggested to the distributor that the used fish 

 net would be of value to blueberry growers, an excess of 100 tons have 

 been sold for this purpose. Initially, the netting came in odd shapes 

 and lengths. Now the material is much more uniform and comes in widths 

 of 60 to 130 feet and very large lengths. 



The durability of the various nettings is unknown by us and the 

 comments on the various nettings are based on field observations and 

 not research. The kraft paper yarn and nylon nettings, given ordinary 

 care will last many years. Our field test with cotton fish net indi- 

 cates that it will last for at least 4 growing seasons. 



CXir limited observations of the acrylic webbing causes us to ques- 

 tion the usefulness of this product for protecting cultivated blueberries 

 from bird depredation. It is difficult to erect and keep in place and 

 the fibers become entangled with the bushes and berries and cling to 

 harvested fruit. Further testing of this material is needed, but at 

 present we even question the usefulness of acrylic webbing for the home 

 gardener. 



The cost per square yard of netting is very variable -- 3 to 21 

 cents. When purchasing netting, prime considerations in addition to 

 cost are: durability, ease of erection and space required for storage. 



The cost of netting to enclose one acre of blueberries ranges from 

 approximately $170 to $1190, depending on the type purchased. Although 

 the initial cost of netting is high, the fruit saved and the increased 

 size of berries makes enclosure of our cultivated blueberry plantings 

 economically feasible. Blueberries increase considerably in size after 

 first turning blue. With netting, growers can delay harvest without 

 fear of bird depredation. 



New York Starling Trap 



Bird depredation became a serious problem in the Granville -Blanford 

 lowbush area about 5 years ago, with crop losses of 50% reported. Since 

 covering these fields was not economically feasible, the New York star- 

 ling trap was considered worth trying. Although crop losses were and 

 are still high, growers feel that the trap has prevented heavier losses 

 and in many cases saved their crop. For best results: place the traps 

 on high ground, keep them clean, keep well supplied with fresh water and 

 bait, and always leave 5 to 10 birds in the traps to attract others. 

 One trap to each 15 to 20 fruiting acres seems adequate. A wide variety 

 of baits are used: blueberries, grain, cherries, and apples. Trapped 

 birds can be humanly disposed of by covering the trap with plastic and 

 gassing. 



Although live traps of the type mentioned are legal in Massachusetts, 

 they are less prone to public criticism when used in isolated plantings. 



Based on 5680 square yards: 4850 to cover top and 840 for the sides, 

 The square yards for the sides were figured for an area 210' x 210' 

 with 9' sides. 



