The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making some changes to its grapevine insurance program for the 2025 crop year. USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) is shortening the required grafting …
Survey Highlights Grape Industry Needs
Cooperative Extension Table Grape Advisor for Tulare and Kings Counties, Joy Hollingsworth conducted a needs assessment to better understand the priorities and concerns within the grape industry. The survey was …
Input Sought for National Grape and Wine Industry Survey
A nationwide project supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to benefit the grape and wine industry is seeking engagement from stakeholders. The project titled “Enhancing regional grape and wine …
2023 Grape Crush Report Shows Increase in Tonnage and Average Prices
The California Final Grape Crush Report has been released for 2023, featuring increases in tonnage and average prices. The total grape crush reached 3,899,710 tons, a 6.2 percent increase from …
Taking a Measured Approach to New Raisin Varieties
New raisin varieties and improved production methods are at the forefront of California raisin producers’ interests. Robert Sahatjian of Victor Packing shared his perspective on varieties such as Sunpreme and …
California Grape Crush Shows Modest Increase in 2023
The recent release of the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Preliminary Grape Crush Report offers valuable insights into the state of the wine industry. The Final Grape Crush Report …
One of the Worst Powdery Mildew Years in Recent Memory
Grape growers had a challenging season dealing with powdery mildew issues. BASF Technical Service Representative, Kevin Caffrey said it was one of the worst years in recent history. A major …
Recent Storm ‘Devastating and Unprecedented’ for Table Grape Industry
Wind and rain from Hurricane Hilary have dealt a significant blow to the table grape industry at a critical time of the season. Most of the 90 different varieties that …
New Grapevine Insurance Program Available
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 …
Agronomic Minute: Keeping Botrytis Outbreaks in Check
Vineyard conditions this year have been much wetter than average, bringing more risk of disease. Technical Services Manager for UPL North America, Cassie Rieser said infections can occur during bloom …
Agronomic Minute: Powdery Mildew Control in Vineyards
Grape growers might have a tougher time than average with powdery mildew control this year. Once the disease settles in a vineyard it can be exceptionally difficult to eradicate. Technical …
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 …
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 …