The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced an expansion of crop insurance options with the introduction of the Grapevine insurance program. This program offers coverage for the loss of …
Wet Winter Was a ‘Blessing’ for Winegrape Growers
Winegrape growers appear to be in for a bright growing season after substantial rains came through during the winter. An abundance of moisture can often be problematic for vineyards, providing …
Grape Growers Facing Odd Year for Disease Pressures
Disease pressures in vineyards are likely to be higher this year due to environmental conditions. BASF Technical Service Representative for the Southern San Joaquin Valley, Kevin Caffrey explained there is …
Short Winegrape Crop Could Be Good with Demand Remaining Flat
The short winegrape crop in 2022 could be a good thing for the industry overall. President of Allied Grape Growers, Jeff Bitter said that demand has someone leveled off in …
Surprisingly Low Winegrape Crush Numbers for 2022
California winegrape crush numbers for 2022 were recently released, reflecting another year below average. The California Grape Crush Preliminary Report shows that total wine tonnage was 3,350,000 tons at $944 …
Grower Experience with Dried-on-the-Vine Raisin Varieties
Dried-on-the-vine raisin varieties offer significant potential for the industry. The varieties can eliminate some of the labor required in raisin production. Ranch manager for Marthedal Enterprises, Austin Hubbell said they …
Collaboration Critical for Advancing the Raisin Industry
A key component to the success of the agriculture industry is efficiency through innovation. For Austin Hubbell, ranch manager for Marthedal Enterprises, ag partnerships are a key to innovation. Growers …
California Wine Industry Has $170 Billion Impact on U.S. Economy
According to a recent report, the California wine industry has an impact of $170.5 billion in annual economic activity in the U.S. “The Economic Impact of California Wine” report was …
Winegrape Market in Balance After Three Short Crops
President of Allied Grape Growers (AGG), Jeff Bitter said that the winegrape market is seeing more of a “stable environment” after three short crops in a row. While acreage has …
Recent Rain System Could Be Problematic for Raisin Grapes
Many growers were thankful that California received some much-needed rain. However, the early-season storm system that came through could create issues for raisin grapes. Technical Viticulturist for Sun-Maid Growers, Steve …
Shift in Table Grape Growing from Traditional Cultivars to Licensed Varieties
Table grape production in California demonstrates how breeding innovations keep the industry moving forward. Senior Fresh Produce Analyst for RaboResearch, David Magaña said that growers have been shifting away from …
Keeping A Close Eye on Crops After Unseasonal Rainfall
Unusual weather brought thunderstorms and unseasonal rainfall to multiple areas of California last week. Nearly an inch and a half of rain resulted in substantial flooding in Death Valley. Some …
Winegrape Assessment Rate Has Been Set for 2022 Harvest
The winegrape assessment rate to support continued industry research has been increased for the 2022 harvest. At a recent meeting, the Pierce’s Disease and Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter (PD/GWSS) Board voted to …
USDA Amends California Grape Marketing Order
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is amending the California Grape Marketing Order. USDA is reducing membership of the California Desert Grape Administrative Committee from 12 to 10. The amendment …