Eastern Washington Wine Grape Systems LTARE Site
Key Objective
Evaluate and identify the influence of vineyard management practices on soil health and its impact on grape and wine quality
Cropping System and Region
Eastern Washington Wine Grape Systems
Climate and Soil Type
Annual high temperature: 65 F
Annual low temperature: 42 F
Average annual precipitation: 9 in
Primary soil type: Warden silt loam
Location
WSU - Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center in Prosser, Washington
Established
2023
Area
Four acres with five primary treatments
Leaders
Devin Rippner - Senior Soil Scientist and LTARE PI, USDA-ARS
Elizabeth Gillispie - Vineyard Project Manager and Soil Scientist, WSU
Michelle Moyer - Professor and Viticulture Extension Specialist, WSU
Markus Keller- Professor and Chateau Ste. Michelle Distinguished Professor in Viticulture, WSU
Investigating cover cropping and organic matter additions
Collaborators
Sarah Del Moro - Vineyard Manager, Wyckoff Farms, Inc.
Melissa Hansen - Research Program Director, WA Wine Commission
Patrick Rawn - Vineyard Operations, Two Mountain Winery
Julie Tarara - Viticulturist, Results Partners
Adam Romos - Viticulture Specialist, Welch’s
Matias Kusulas - Head Winemaker and Viticulturist, Gard Vintners and Desert Wind Winery, Lawrence Vineyards
Dick Boushey - Owner and Vineyard Manager, Boushey Vineyards
Catherine Jones - Viticulture and Specialty Crop Consultant, Wilbur Ellis
Kade Casciato - Vineyard Manager, Ciel du Cheval Vineyard
Reid Wilson - Vineyard Manager, Hedges Family Estate
Updates from the Prosser LTARE site
