Washington State University Extension announced on April 14 the release of two new bulletins aimed at supporting viticulturists and farmers in the Pacific Northwest. The publications address how to temporarily halt vineyard production and provide an annual summary of activities at the Wilke Research and Extension Farm.
The bulletins are part of WSU Extension’s ongoing effort to offer practical information for agriculture professionals, home gardeners, and pesticide applicators. Resources are available through the Extension Publications Store, with some guides offered in Spanish. Online versions now include links to related materials for further reading.
One publication, “Idling Vineyards in the Pacific Northwest (FS407E),” provides guidance for growers who need to pause production due to market conditions, economic issues, or limited resources. The guide discusses management practices such as pruning, irrigation adjustments, vineyard nutrition strategies, pest control measures, and weed management during idle periods. Authors Michelle Moyer from WSU’s Department of Viticulture and Enology; Markus Keller from WSU; and Patricia Skinkis from Oregon State University contributed their expertise to this resource.
Another bulletin titled “WSU Wilke Research and Extension Farm Operation, Production, and Economic Performance for 2024 (TB110E)” presents a comprehensive overview of annual operations at the 320-acre research farm near Davenport. Targeted toward farmers and crop consultants working in intermediate rainfall zones, it details rotations performed throughout the year as well as weather patterns and soil conditions observed on-site. Aaron Esser, WSU Regional Extension Agronomist, along with Derek Appel, WSU Research Technician authored this report.
These publications reflect Washington State University’s commitment to providing up-to-date agricultural information that supports local producers’ decision-making processes.
