The Fields are looking quite good this year at Grand Valley Strawberries near Brandon.

The pick-your-own patch, which has been in operation since 1981, is scheduled to open starting in July.

"We had a great winter with less severe temperatures and enough snow and that really helps bring the crop to a great start in the spring," explained owner George Neudorf.  "Enough rain and great conditions since then so that's a great recipe."

Neudorf noted last time they received a good crop was three years ago.

He stated they have grown to 18 acres of strawberries and will need lots of customers to help pick this year.

Meanwhile, Neudorf said the number of local pick-your-own patches is decreasing.

"There is not too many. I got a friend at Souris and few other closer ones but there is not too many.  I think Brandon is a great location for us.  Lots of people come to visit the Wheat city and just a few kilometres east of town.  It's pretty handy."

Neudorf added pricing and picking information for Grand Valley Strawberries can be found at grandvalleystrawberries.ca.