Exceptions can be made when the planner documents a special need to vary from the recommendation. This poses some potential concerns for cranberry growers. Soil tests are not the best diagnostic tool for perennial fruit crops. Tissue tests are far better. I will be reviewing the recommendations for fruit crops in this bulletin in an effort to allow appropriate diagnostic tools to be used.
Soil erosion is another issue.
Once beds are vined over and the dikes are stable this should not be an issue for cranberry growers. However, plans for managing erosion during construction and for the first year or two after planting may be prudent. If the proposal is funded about five sites will be utilized to prepare and test nutrient management plans. Subsequently these materials will be made available to growers and to nutrient management planners. The construction phase of marsh establishment is when most erosion can occur.