Maryland Grape Growers Association 2013 “Summer Field Day” Viticulture Workshop

Saturday, June 15     8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Harford Vineyard and Winery
1311 West Jarrettsville Road
Forest Hill, Maryland

This hands-on learning opportunity will provide current and future vineyard owners, operators, and managers throughout the mid-Atlantic region with the latest information on Integrated Pest Management, insect recognition and control, equipment safety, and much more.

In addition to a walking tour and current situation assessment of the vineyard, the program will include a number of sessions on topics important to grape growers in Maryland. Among them:

Dr. Joe Fiola, Viticulture and Small Fruit Specialist with the University of Maryland will present a session on integrated pest management. This topic includes scouting current vineyard conditions, assessing canopy management, and evaluating options for disease and pest control.

Dr. David Myers, Associate Professor of Plant Science with the University of Maryland will discuss the unforgiving nature of machinery and the common mistakes and oversights that can lead to injury and worse on the farm. Dr. Myers will also present a session on pesticide and herbicide application including the correct setup and use of sprayer technology.

Dr. Anne Nielsen, Tree and Small Fruit Entomologist with Rutgers University will present a session on vineyard insect pests – how to recognize them, when to expect them, and how to control them. The discussion will cover common, new and anticipated pests likely to call mid-Atlantic vineyards home this year.

Kevin Mooney, owner and operator of Harford Vineyard and Winery will host the vineyard walk. A winery tour and tasting are included.

Private and Commercial Pesticide Applicator Recertification credits will be awarded, for the session presented by Dr. Myers.

Pre-registration for the Summer Field Day is open through June 6 at a cost of $35 for current MGGA members and $45 for non-members. On-site “at-the-door” registration begins at 8:30am at a cost of $45 for current MGGA members and $55 for non-members. A continental breakfast will be provided. Please bring your lunch, beverages, and a lawn chair. Clothing and shoes appropriate for a day in the vineyard are recommended and adequate sun protection is strongly encouraged.

To pre-register online, and for more information including mail-in forms, a detailed agenda, driving directions, etc., please visit http://www.marylandgrapes.org.