Building healthy soils is key to resilient vineyards—but how do you measure success, and which practices truly move the needle? Join us for an in-field discussion exploring soil health from multiple angles, starting with three presentations: Jenny Garley (Bio SI) will share insights on using sap sugar levels as a practical indicator of plant and soil health, highlighting how increased microbial activity (especially fungi) can boost photosynthesis and overall vineyard performance. Dr. Stewart Wilson (Cal Poly) will provide a soil science perspective, grounding the conversation in the latest research and field applications. Mike Costello (Oakville Bluegrass) will outline current funding and grant opportunities available to growers, with a focus on cover crops and soil-building practices. We’ll then transition to a grower panel led by host Bob Tillman, sharing real-world experience implementing regenerative practices. REGISTER

When we launched the Sustainable Winegrowing Podcast in 2016, we weren’t sure where it would go. Now, 300 episodes later, it’s become a go-to resource for growers, researchers, educators, and wine industry professionals dedicated to sustainability. To mark this milestone, we flipped the mic around and interviewed our host, Craig Macmillan, PhD — long-time vineyard and winery professional, educator, and now podcasting veteran — to reflect on some favorite episodes, meaningful moments, and what’s ahead. From Zoom Recordings to Global Reach Craig began hosting when the podcast was just an idea sparked by the Vineyard Team’s goal to make sustainable winegrowing knowledge more accessible. “I wasn't a podcast listener at all,” Craig admits. “But I said sure, why not? Let's try it.” Since then, the show has featured scientists, growers, and innovators from all over the world, creating a ripple effect of conversations and c

A sequel to our Regenerative Agriculture Tailgate in 2023: Visit a production vineyard with an ongoing, long-term investigation into the adoption of regenerative practices. This Tailgate picks up on the research shared at the 2023 Tailgate hosted at Jackson Family Wines. REGISTER Bart Haycfraft of Jackson Family Wines will give an update on their long-term regenerative research project including soil health, cover-cropping, and fruit quality. Plus, he will discuss how to measure “improvement” or progress and what tools can be used.  Taniell Liepner of Biomemakers will present research to assess the soil microbiome, as well as recent projects to improve soil health. Jo Ann Baumgartner (Wild Farm Alliance) will join in to discuss how to support beneficial birds in the vineyard by evaluating the food, water, cover, and having a nesting habitat present. She will educate attendees about the natural pest management strategies of putting up nest boxes and usin