We are delighted to announce the 2023 Washington State University / Washington State Grape Society Viticulture Field Day.

Event Details

When: Thursday, August 10

Time: 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Where: WSU Prosser IAREC – Main Campus Vineyards.  Please plan to carpool to reduce total traffic to research sites.

Cost: $20

Registration will be limited to 80 people.

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2023-viticulture-field-day-tickets-647348214937

2 WSDA pesticide recertification credits have been approved for this event.

Event Description

This outdoor educational event will feature a series of educational rotations, with 35 minute stops at four themed stations.  On-site check in begins at 8:00 AM  and the event will be done by 11:30 AM.

1. Station 1 – Vineyard Nutrition. Learn about when the best time to tissue sample is, and what tools are in the pipeline to better assess vine nutrient status.  Presented by the Keller Research Program, Washington State University.
2. Station 2 – Compliance and Quarantines.  This station will provide updates on Spotted Lanternfly and Japanese Beetle monitoring and management efforts in WA.  It will also have updated information and resources on the new ESA Endangered Species Protection Bulletins (Bulletins Live! Two), as those will impact what and how we use pesticides in agricultural settings; with specific regional and location application restrictions. Presented by Cassie Cichorz, WSDA, and Rachel Bomberger, Washington State University.
3. Station 3 – Mealybug Management. Learn about alternative grape mealybug management! This station will demonstrate how beneficial insects can be used in vineyards, including a presentation on how to use drones for their applications, and which insects to the best job. This station will also cover the use of pheromones for mating disruption, and will present information on the when and how to use pheromone lures in the vineyard. Presented by the James and Walsh Research Programs, Washington State University.
4. Station 4 – Soil Structure and Composition. Learn about soil! This station will discuss tools – both modern and classic – to determine the soil structure and composition at your vineyard. It will then show how those soil properties can impact water movement in the soil, and how that might affect your chemigation and fertigation practices. Presented by the Rippner Research Group, USDA.

Post-Event Activities

After the field day, join us for a no-host lunch at WSU Prosser with Cascade Crust Pizza Truck.

Following that event, join us at the Walter Clore Wine Science Center for the Washington Advancements in Viticulture and Enology event, hosted by the Washington Wine Commission.  See event details at: https://wine.wsu.edu/event/wave-washington-advancements-in-viticulture-and-enology/

Host Organizations

This event is co-hosted by the Washington State Grape Society, and Washington State University Viticulture Extension.

Special thanks to Inland Desert Nursery for sponsoring water and snacks for this event!

Anyone attending this program who requires auxiliary aids or services, please contact Michelle Moyer at 509-786-9234 or michelle.moyer@wsu.edu. Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.