FOLSOM, CALIF. - The US Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) has launched the America's Best Blueberry Pie Contest, giving fans of blueberries an opportunity to enter their favorite recipe for the chance to win the $10,000 grand prize, $1,500 second prize or $1,000 third prize. The winning pie also will be named the official pie of the blueberry industry. 

The America's Best Blueberry Pie Contest runs through July 12, and entries will be judged by Tieghan Gerard, the New York Times best-selling author of two cookbooks and the Half Baked Harvest blog. Contest participants need to submit their original recipe and a photo of their blueberry pie and the winner will be announced by the end of July in honor of National Blueberry Month. 

"I'm really looking forward to tasting some of these delicious blueberry pie entries and picking the grand prize winner. You could say it's a sweet gig," said Gerard. "As my readers know, I love any kind of pie, but blueberry is hands down my favorite, especially in the summer." 

The America's Best Blueberry Pie Contest offers one delicious way to celebrate National Blueberry Month. The summer months are peak season for blueberries in North America, and the time is ripe to visit local farms and pick fresh blueberries – for pies and many other kitchen adventures. Simple, healthy and delicious, blueberries bring a pop of color and flavor to any snack or dish.  

"Blueberry pie is a beloved dessert – and a long-standing summer tradition worth celebrating," said Kasey Cronquist, USHBC president. "People love blueberries, and we're excited to shine a spotlight on some talented blueberry fans and find the best blueberry pie in America, once and for all."