The Organic Journey of Mckay Creek Blueberries
Nestled within the landscape of North Plains, Oregon, Mckay Creek Blueberries is a thriving organic farm spanning 160 acres, with 72 acres dedicated to producing some of the finest organic blueberries. The farm is owned and operated by Alfred and Julie Dinsdale, who purchased the land in 2011. As its third owner, they have transformed it into a fully certified organic haven over the past five years. OGC is excited to introduce Mckay Creek Blueberries as a new grower partner this season.
Alfred and Julie's journey into farming was not a leap into the unknown. Alfred's roots run deep in the agricultural world, having grown up on a dairy farm in Cornelius, Oregon. Although the dairy operation ceased in 1972, the land remains in the family, now home to a nursery managed by his sister. Agriculture runs in the family’s blood, with their two other siblings also in farming—one managing a berry farm and another ranching, focused on hay and cattle.
The Dinsdale's ag expertise extends beyond blueberries. They also operate a wholesale plant nursery close to their berry farm. This adjacent business allows them to propagate their organic blueberry starts, reducing costs and ensuring healthy high-yield plants.
Mckay Creek Blueberries grows five varieties: Reka, Duke, Legacy, Elliot and Aurora. Each has its unique flavor, size and handling requirements. For example, Reka, a delicate early-season variety, is hand-picked and field-packed to avoid bruising. Duke, known for its robust nature and slight pop, is a reliable producer. Alfred has a fondness for Legacy, praising its complex flavor profile.
After recent summers marked by extreme climate events—from droughts to the notorious heat dome in 2021, this season appears to be a return to normalcy, with promising yields and healthy, sizable fruits.
The Dinsdale's commitment to quality is not just a statement but a way of life. During the summer months, they employ a crew of 30 to 50 people dedicated to hand-picking and packing, ensuring that the berries are harvested and handled with care. A recent investment in a mechanical harvester designed for the fresh harvest market will help them keep up during peak season.
Sustainability is at the heart of Mckay Creek Blueberries
The farm is tackling the persistent issue of weeds through mechanical weed control and chicken compost fertilizer stirred in by cultivators. Fir sawdust is spread to retain moisture and suppress weeds. The farm relies on drip irrigation and low-output sprinklers for cooling and frost control. Plans are underway to add a reservoir to ensure an available water source during drier summers. Solar panels power field packing trailers, eliminating the need for generators to power the badge system with scanners tracks picker weights.
Biodiversity is another cornerstone of the farm’s ecosystem-enhancing efforts. The property has a pollinator strip and 13 acres of conservation plantings, and plans are in the works to add a stream-side pollinator planting. Alfred’s holistic approach to farming emphasizes the interconnectedness of soil health and plant vitality.
“In the organic model, you've got complex life in the soil helping feed these plants,” Alfred explains. “It’s about farming from the ground up; we’re doing right by the soil.”
With their three sons involved in operation between college studies paired with a commitment to preserving the environment and agricultural character of the North Plains community, Mckay Creek Blueberries is not just a business, it’s a family legacy rooted in responsible, sustainable practices.
Harvest starts in July, so ask your OGC Account Representative about adding flats of open pint Mckay Creek Blueberries to your orders.