Jun 6, 2024

2024 Michigan viticulture field day scheduled

This year’s Michigan Viticulture Field Day and Enology Experience Day are scheduled.

The 35th yearly field day is scheduled for July 31 while the enology event is set for Aug. 1.

The events are designed to offer two days of education about the latest technology, strategies and techniques in both viticulture and winemaking.

The field day will be at the Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center outside of Benton Harbor, Michigan. Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. with presentations starting after 9:00 a.m. Lunch and a steak dinner are included with attendance.

Speakers discussing the current research going on in Michigan viticulture as well as tips and tricks and the newest tools and technology to help growers successfully grow grapes are planned, according to a news release.

Speakers and topics include:

• Michael Reinke will provide updates on the spray drone research trial at SWMREC comparing efficacy and efficiency to traditional ground sprayer equipment.
• Cheyenne Sloan will use a soil pit to demonstrate and discuss soil structure and soil health from a grapevine’s perspective.
• Tim Miles will share some of the newest insights in adapting grape disease management programs to the whims of the weather.
• Rufus Isaacs will discuss how to adjust pest management programs in a year with a short crop because of winter and spring frost damage.
• Updates to a demonstration trial comparing grape pruning methods used to adjust for winter damaged vines.

A tradeshow will include vendors showcasing some of the area’s newest precision viticulture equipment. The popular steak cookout and Michigan wine showcase are also planned. A reception will allow participants to socialize with the grape-growing community with food and local wine.

New this year, the Enology Experience is planned for Michigan winemakers. The day after Viticulture Field Day, winemakers can meet other winemakers and winery decision makers at the Welch Center on Lake Michigan College campus. Check-in starts at 8:00 am with presentations beginning after 9:00 am.

The event is scheduled to begin with discussions on the state of Michigan’s wine industry followed by presentations on quality wine production and a tasting panel of Michigan winemakers sharing their thoughts on lesser grown varieties.

The afternoon will consist of visits to local winemaking facilities where different aspects of successful wine production will be discussed before the group returns to the Welch Center for a Lake Michigan Vintners Open House and small bites.

Early bird tickets are on sale until July 18.

The event is sponsored by the Michigan Grape Society, Michigan State University Extension and Lake Michigan College.

More information is available here.