Registration now open for WAVEx-Grape Virus Detection

Scientists to share latest wine grape virus research and new management strategies

SEATTLE (January 16, 2020) – Washington wine grape growers and winemakers are invited to an upcoming seminar focused on grapevine viruses, a major research priority for the state’s wine industry. Registration is now open for WAVEx-Grape Virus Detection, a condensed version of the research seminar Washington Advancements in Viticulture and Enology, February 19, 2020 at Washington State University’s Prosser research station.

The industry-funded grape virus research is led by Dr. Naidu Rayapati, WSU plant pathologist, and Dr. Doug Walsh, WSU entomologist, to develop ways to manage virus in the vineyard. There is no cure once a grapevine is infected, which has historically meant that the first line of defense is simply using clean plant material when planting a vineyard. However, in recent years young vineyards planted with clean stock have shown virus symptoms within a few years of planting.

The three-hour WAVEx research seminar will share latest research findings from Rayapati, including what’s behind the viral spread in young vineyards, non-pesticidal intervention strategies, phenomics of grapevine responses to viral infections (impacts on crop yield and fruit quality of own-rooted and top-grafted vineyards), and results of vineyard surveys for other emerging viruses. Walsh will share what he learned about potential resistance of grape mealybug to a widely used crop protection chemical, pest management strategies for the buffalo treehopper, a possible vector of red blotch virus, and his work to quantify the efficiency of grape mealybug as a vector of leafroll virus.

The session will also share practical virus testing information including how, when, and what to sample to confirm virus in grapevines, how to interpret testing results, and a demonstration of laboratory testing methods. The seminar will conclude with a grower-led discussion on priorities for future virus testing.

The goal of WAVE is to raise awareness about the value of research among grape growers and wineries. The research seminars have become a valuable venue to discuss current and future research and bring scientists and industry members together. Pre-registration is encouraged and seats are limited. Register here: WAVEx-Grape Virus Detection (www.washingtonwine.org/research/wave).

About Washington State Wine

Washington State Wine represents every licensed winery and wine grape grower in Washington State. Guided by an appointed board, the mission of the WSW is to raise positive awareness and demand for Washington State wine through marketing and education while supporting viticulture and enology research to drive industry growth.  Funded almost entirely by the industry through assessments based on grape and wine sales, the WSW is a state government agency, established by the legislature in 1987. To learn more, visit www.washingtonwine.org.

Media Contact: Heather Bradshaw, Communications Director, (206) 326-5752, hbradshaw@washingtonwine.org