Research Helps Fuel Revolution in Sustainable Viticulture

Winegrapes are one of California's signature agricultural products, bringing some $52 billion in revenue and 20 million tourists to the state each year. At the same time, grapes are grown on some of the most sensitive acres in the state, in areas of high population growth, high land values and environmental activism.

Since the early 1990s, the California winegrape industry has made an unprecedented effort to promote sustainable practices, those that prioritize environmental protection, economic viability and social equity. Winegrape growers have formed unique partnerships - with UC researchers, government agencies, environmental groups, vineyard neighbors and others - to define best practices and monitor progress along a "sustainability continuum."