Sustainable/Organic Grape IPM Project

A. Sustainable/Organic Grape IPM in the Texas South Plains

Farmer/Rancher or Farmer Organization Conducting the Project
Provide the name, full address, telephone, and email of the farmer/rancher or farmer organization conducting the project. Tell us more about your farm operations. Limited to 500 words.

Project Cooperators
List at least one (1) cooperator involved in the project. Cooperators can be other farmers, researchers, extension agents, governmental or non-governmental organizations, or others who are involved in the project planning, data collection and outreach of results. Include the role of each cooperator on the project. Do not list more than six cooperators. Limited
to 500 words

Bob Whitney is an Extension Organic Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, focusing on organic agriculture practices and programs in Texas. With extensive experience in supporting organic producers, Bob will play a crucial role in project planning, implementation, and outreach. Specifically, Bob will be responsible for providing expert guidance on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, helping design and implement field trials, and contributing to the monitoring and evaluation processes. Bob will also lead educational initiatives, such as workshops and field days, aimed at disseminating results to local farmers, extension agents, and other stakeholders. His role as a bridge between research and practical application ensures that project outcomes will be relevant and directly applicable to the needs of regional growers.

Dr. Kyle Slusher is an Assistant Professor and Extension Entomologist at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, based in Stephenville, Texas. Dr. Slusher’s expertise lies in agricultural pest management with an emphasis on biological control. He focuses on building a system-based approach to pest management by understanding the ecological and component-level impacts of pest control tactics and natural enemy complexes. In this project, Dr. Slusher will contribute his expertise in developing and implementing biological control strategies for managing pest populations in organic vineyards. His role will include helping to design and execute pest monitoring protocols, advising on the release of beneficial insects, and evaluating the ecological impact of various IPM interventions. Dr. Slusher will also be involved in training sessions and workshops, ensuring that the knowledge gained is shared effectively with local vineyard managers and agricultural professionals.

Fritz Westover is a viticulturist with over two decades of hands-on experience in the viticulture industry, assisting growers across the eastern, southern, and western United States. Fritz began his career as a vineyard worker at Chaddsford Winery in Pennsylvania while completing his BS in horticulture from Penn State University, followed by an MS from the Penn State Department of Plant Pathology, where he focused on grapevine decline, disease management, and compost applications in vineyards. Fritz has international winemaking experience from Caiarossa Vineyards and Winery in Italy and has held multiple roles, including Viticulture Extension Program Specialist for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension from 2007 to 2013, where he developed viticulture education and research programs statewide. Currently, Fritz consults for vineyard clients in over five states in the southeastern US, specializing in Pierce’s disease tolerant and vinifera grape varieties. In this project, Fritz will provide viticulture expertise for optimizing vineyard management practices, guiding decisions on vine health, disease management, and sustainability. He will also contribute to outreach activities, sharing his vast experience with local growers and vineyard staff through field days and workshops.

B. Proposal

Statement of the Problem:

This project focuses on addressing pest issues in two organic vineyards located in the semi-arid South Plains of Texas. Pest pressures such as leafhoppers, glassy-winged sharpshooters, aphids, thrips, and occasional grasshoppers have threatened the productivity and sustainability of our grape production, and the 2024 growing season highlighted significant challenges with insect pests, especially with leafhoppers. Despite applying organic sprays, results were inconsistent, and pests like leafhoppers continued to cause significant damage. 

Pierce’s Disease, which is spread by the glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS), poses an additional potential threat to our vineyards. Pierce’s Disease is caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, which clogs the water-conducting vessels of grapevines, leading to leaf scorch, reduced yield, and eventually vine death. Glassy-winged sharpshooters are efficient vectors for this bacterium, making their control critical to preserving vineyard health. In the semi-arid South Plains, conditions can be favorable for glassy-winged sharpshooter populations, which further complicates disease management and increases economic losses. The combination of insect pest pressures and disease makes it clear that traditional organic sprays alone are not sufficient to manage these challenges effectively. 

The semi-arid climate of the South Plains presents unique challenges for grape production. Limited rainfall and high temperatures create an environment where pests can thrive without natural constraints. The variability in weather patterns further exacerbates pest pressures, making consistent pest management extremely difficult. Leafhoppers, for example, thrive under these dry conditions, and their population fluctuations are difficult to predict. Glassy-winged sharpshooters also find favorable conditions in this climate, further increasing the risk of Pierce’s Disease outbreaks. This unpredictability adds stress and economic burden on our vineyards, leading to inconsistent yields and increased production costs. 

Our project aims to create a consistent, effective pest management approach through the integration of beneficial insects, habitat establishment, and organic pest control products. The key challenge is identifying and integrating optimal beneficial insects and developing appropriate habitats to enhance pest control. The support of our collaborators, who bring specialized knowledge in organic and entomological practices, ensures that this integrated approach is effective across our two vineyard locations. 

The variability in pest pressure across our vineyards makes it difficult for us to consistently apply control measures, which often result in increased economic losses. Implementing a sustainable, integrated pest management (IPM) strategy is critical to improving vineyard health and profitability. Moreover, it will foster environmental resilience by enhancing beneficial insect populations, preserving biodiversity, and reducing the reliance on organic sprays that are costly and not always effective. A key aspect of our IPM strategy is targeting both leafhoppers and glassy-winged sharpshooters to mitigate the risk of Pierce’s Disease, which remains a constant threat to vineyard productivity. 

In addition to insect pests, the lack of diversified habitats in our vineyards also impacts biodiversity, ecological balance, and overall vineyard resilience. Establishing beneficial habitats and understanding the optimal conditions for beneficial insects is crucial for managing pests sustainably. The limited natural vegetation in the semi-arid South Plains means fewer refuges for beneficial insects, reducing their ability to control pest populations naturally. Therefore, we seek to fill these knowledge gaps by developing a consistent approach to controlling vineyard pests in a semi-arid climate. We believe that this holistic approach will not only improve our pest control effectiveness but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of our vineyards by mitigating both pest pressures and the threat of Pierce’s Disease. 

Statement of Proposed Solution

We propose a two-year Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy to address pest challenges in our organic vineyards located near Seminole and Seagraves, Texas. This strategy aims to establish a sustainable and resilient production system by focusing on beneficial habitat development, biological augmentation, and organic treatments for pest control. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension team, led by Bob Whitney and Dr. Kyle Slusher, will provide continuous monitoring, guidance, and technical recommendations throughout the project duration.

Beneficial Habitat Development

Establishing beneficial habitats within the vineyard is essential for biological control and maintaining ecological balance. We will introduce a diverse mix of flowering plants and cover crops throughout the vineyard to provide consistent resources—nectar, pollen, and shelter—for beneficial insects. Key species such as butterfly milkweed, buttonbush, partridge pea, and aromatic aster have been selected for their ecological value and compatibility with vineyard ecosystems. These species will be incorporated into inter-row plantings, perennial boundary zones, and nectar and shelter islands, ensuring a stable habitat that supports beneficial insect populations year-round.

By creating microclimates through these diversified plantings, we will mitigate harsh conditions typical of the South Plains while fostering beneficial insect populations such as ladybugs, lacewings, parasitic wasps, and hoverflies. This approach ensures that beneficial insects are present throughout the growing season, providing natural pest suppression and contributing to a balanced vineyard ecosystem.

Biological Augmentation

The biological augmentation component of our strategy involves the release of beneficial insects at critical times during the growing season to manage specific pests effectively. Species such as parasitic wasps, lacewings, and predatory mites will be used to control key vineyard pests like aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, and grasshoppers. Monitoring tools such as visual scouting, sticky traps, and pheromone lures will help us precisely time these releases, ensuring the effective suppression of pests before they become economically damaging.

The releases will complement the established beneficial habitats, supporting a self-sustaining population of beneficial insects year-round. This augmentation approach not only targets pest populations directly but also helps reduce the need for frequent external releases over time by establishing a naturally balanced ecosystem.

Organic Pest Control Products

While the focus is on habitat development and biological control, organic treatments will be incorporated when necessary. We will use OMRI-listed products compatible with beneficial insect populations to minimize the negative impact on non-target species. Organic treatments such as neem oil, pyrethrins, and insecticidal soaps will be applied strategically based on real-time pest monitoring.

The integration of organic treatments will follow a data-driven approach—targeting pest outbreaks with spot treatments only when necessary. This ensures maximum pest suppression while minimizing harm to beneficial insect populations. Additionally, we will trial innovative adjuvants to improve the efficacy of these products, seeking solutions that require lower application rates and are more cost-effective in the semi-arid vineyard environment.

Monitoring and Evaluation Strategy

The success of the IPM strategy will be closely monitored through systematic data collection. Vineyard staff will conduct visual scouting biweekly, and sticky traps will be deployed throughout the vineyard to track pest and beneficial insect populations. Pheromone lures will be employed to monitor key pests at critical times during the growing season. Data collected will be analyzed regularly by the project team, allowing adjustments to be made in the timing of beneficial insect releases or habitat management actions. This adaptive management approach ensures the strategy remains effective in response to changing environmental and pest conditions.

Educational Component for Vineyard Staff and Community

To ensure the long-term success of the IPM strategy, we will implement an educational component that includes regular training sessions and workshops for vineyard workers, extension agents, and local community members. These sessions will cover key IPM practices, including habitat management, pest monitoring, and organic treatment application. Field days will also be organized at critical stages of the growing season, allowing participants to observe IPM practices in real-time and learn about the benefits of integrating beneficial insect habitats into vineyard management.

Sustainability Metrics and Economic Impact

To gauge the effectiveness of our IPM approach, we will track several sustainability metrics throughout the project duration. Metrics include reduced pesticide usage, improved beneficial insect populations, and soil health improvements. These indicators will provide insight into the ecological impact of our practices. Additionally, we will evaluate the economic impact of the IPM strategy by tracking cost savings from reduced pesticide use, increased grape yield, and improved grape quality. These economic benefits will demonstrate the viability of the IPM approach, encouraging wider adoption among other vineyard operators in the region.

Broader Applicability and Long-term Vision

The IPM strategy developed for our vineyards has the potential to serve as a model for other organic production systems. The methods employed, such as beneficial habitat establishment and biological augmentation, are adaptable to other crops and can provide insights into sustainable pest management across different agricultural systems in similar climates. Our long-term vision is to establish a knowledge base and community of practice that will extend beyond our vineyards, contributing to the sustainability of organic agriculture throughout the Southern region.

Commitment and Implementation

We, Henry, Marie, Rob, and Dennis, have committed to fully implementing these IPM practices over the project’s two-year duration. Bob Whitney and Dr. Kyle Slusher will provide ongoing guidance and support to ensure the successful integration of these components, while also serving as a bridge for any additional resources or research that might be needed during the implementation phase. This collaboration will help us overcome the challenges associated with pest variability and ensure that our vineyards become models of sustainable organic production in the region.

Conclusion

By integrating beneficial habitat establishment, biological augmentation, and organic treatments, our IPM strategy aims to create a sustainable and resilient vineyard ecosystem. The combination of careful monitoring, adaptive management, educational outreach, and economic assessment ensures that our approach will not only address current pest challenges but also contribute to the long-term viability and profitability of organic viticulture in the South Plains of Texas. Through this project, we hope to demonstrate that sustainable pest management is both achievable and economically viable, paving the way for broader adoption across the organic agriculture community.

Approaches and Methods

Our project adopts a holistic, integrated approach to pest management in our vineyards, focusing on a two-year IPM (Integrated Pest Management) strategy to tackle pest challenges effectively. The IPM strategy revolves around three key components: beneficial habitat establishment, biological augmentation, and organic treatments. Each approach is designed to create a balanced, sustainable vineyard ecosystem suitable for the semi-arid conditions of the South Plains of Texas.

Beneficial Habitat Development

The establishment of beneficial habitats within the vineyard is crucial for supporting biological control efforts. We will develop diverse habitats by introducing a variety of flowering plants strategically throughout the vineyard to provide consistent resources—nectar, pollen, and shelter—for beneficial insects (Table 1). This approach will create microclimates that protect beneficial populations and mitigate the harsh environmental conditions common in the South Plains. These species will be incorporated using different forms of habitat management, such as alley cropping and perennial border rows. Alley cropping of various species of cover crops will support beneficial insects while also supporting soil health. Perennial boundary zones, containing species like buttonbush and butterfly milkweed, will act as year-round refuges, ensuring a stable population of beneficial insects that can move into the vineyard as needed.

To measure the effects of habitat management on beneficial insects and pests, yellow sticky cards will be deployed weekly. In addition, suction samples will be collected using a reverse leaf blower during each sticky card deployment period.

Table 1.  Examples of potential plants that will be included in border row plantings.

Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)	Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)	Partridge Pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata)
Narrow-Leafed Coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia)	Lemon Beebalm (Mondra citriodora)	Aromatic Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium)

Biological Augmentation

The second component of our IPM strategy involves biological augmentation, focusing on the release of beneficial insects to suppress pest populations effectively. Parasitic wasps, lacewings, and predatory mites will be introduced to address key pests, including aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, and grasshoppers. For example, lacewings will be released to target aphid populations, while parasitic wasps will focus on controlling leafhoppers. Releases will be carefully timed to coincide with pest population dynamics which will be verified using the methods described above for habitat management assessment plus biweekly scouting for pest populations

To measure the interactions between habitat management, pest control, and biological augmentation, randomly selected sections of the orchard with habitat management and without habitat management will be augmented with beneficial insects. For comparison, selected areas with habitat management and with habitat management will not have any beneficial insect augmentation. Sticky card and suction sampling captures will be used to compare the four treatment groups to see if habitat management increases augmented beneficial residence in the vineyard.

Organic Pest Control Products

When pest outbreaks cannot be managed solely through biological augmentation and habitat support, organic treatments will be incorporated as needed. The focus will be on products that are OMRI-listed and compatible with beneficial insect populations, minimizing harm while maximizing pest control effectiveness.

Products such as neem oil, pyrethrins, kaolin clay, diatomaceous earth and insecticidal soaps will be used strategically based on pest monitoring results. Timing and application methods will be critical, with a focus on spot treatments to reduce non-target impacts and protect beneficial insect populations. In addition, we will trial innovative organic products and possible adjuvants designed to enhance the efficacy of pest control in semi-arid environments like ours. These formulations may offer longer-lasting control or require lower application rates, resulting in more cost-effective pest management. Our organic treatments will be interspersed with both habitat development and biological augmentation to determine any changes in beneficial insect populations and ultimately reductions in pest numbers.  Our applications of any organic pesticides will be contingent on monitoring of pest numbers and potential for beneficial insect predation.  Monitoring and data collection at all sites will drive any applications.

This data-driven approach will enable us to adjust beneficial insect releases, habitat locations, and organic treatment applications as needed to respond to pest pressures effectively. For instance, if monitoring reveals high aphid populations, we may intensify lacewing releases and adjust our habitat management to better support lacewing larvae. By continuously adapting our practices based on monitoring data, we aim to achieve long-term pest suppression with minimal environmental impact.

Expected Outcomes

The implementation of this comprehensive IPM strategy is expected to result in the following outcomes:

1. Enhanced Beneficial Insect Populations: By creating diverse habitats and providing year-round resources, beneficial insect populations are expected to increase, resulting in natural pest suppression.
2. Reduced Reliance on Organic Sprays: The use of biological augmentation and diversified habitats will help reduce the frequency and quantity of organic pesticide applications, lowering costs and minimizing environmental impacts.
3. Improved Vineyard Resilience: The establishment of microclimates and perennial habitat zones will benefit insect populations and improve the overall resilience of the vineyard to pest outbreaks and environmental stressors.
4. Economic and Environmental Sustainability: The reduction in pest pressures, combined with more effective pest management practices, is anticipated to enhance grape yield and quality while lowering the overall cost of pest management.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The proposed Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy for organic vineyards in the South Plains of Texas aims to support underserved agricultural producers and promote equity in regional farming systems. The South Plains, a predominantly rural area with limited industrial development aside from oil and gas, has substantial agricultural activity. The population, particularly in areas like Seminole and Seagraves, is largely Hispanic, with many involved in agriculture. This project seeks to meet the needs of this underserved community by providing sustainable, economically viable farming practices.

Supporting Underserved Producers

The project focuses on creating a robust system of organic vineyard production that can be adopted by small- to medium-sized growers, many of whom are members of the Hispanic community. These growers often lack the resources and technical support available to larger producers, making it challenging to adopt sustainable practices. By offering training, workshops, and field days, the project will build capacity, empowering these producers to improve vineyard health, reduce chemical inputs, and enhance resilience against pests.

The involvement of our vineyard experts ensures that the technical knowledge required for implementing IPM practices is readily available to these underserved farmers. Training sessions will be conducted in bilingual formats, with materials translated into Spanish to ensure accessibility. This approach will help Hispanic growers implement advanced pest management techniques, boosting productivity and sustainability.

Increasing Equity in Southern Agricultural Systems

This project also contributes to increasing equity within Southern agricultural systems by emphasizing knowledge sharing and the democratization of farming innovations. The challenges faced by these producers are systemic, including historical inequities in land ownership, limited access to technology, and scarce extension services. This project aims to address these disparities by equipping small-scale growers with tools to succeed in organic production, overcoming barriers such as certification requirements and high input costs.

A central tenet of this initiative is community-based learning. By conducting workshops and field days, the project encourages growers to share their experiences and build a support network. This approach enables Hispanic producers to engage with experts and peers, fostering community and shared knowledge. Collaborations with local organizations and co-ops further extend support and resources to these farmers.

Economic Opportunities and Long-term Impact

Economic empowerment is a critical component of equity. By helping producers adopt IPM practices, the project will reduce dependence on costly chemical inputs, lowering production costs and increasing profitability. This financial relief is vital for smaller farms, where input costs consume a significant budget portion. Hispanic growers will also learn to access high-value organic markets, providing opportunities for financial stability and growth.

Furthermore, the emphasis on organic production aligns well with consumer trends favoring sustainably produced food. Hispanic producers participating in this project will gain a competitive edge by entering niche organic markets, thereby enhancing the economic vitality of their farming operations. Increased profitability at the farm level will not only benefit individual producers but also contribute to the economic resilience of the broader South Plains region, which is currently reliant on a limited number of industries.

Environmental Equity and Health Benefits

Reducing pesticide use through IPM benefits both the environment and the health of farmworkers, many of whom are Hispanic. By minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals, the project will create a safer working environment and promote better health outcomes for these workers and their families, contributing to a more equitable agricultural system.

Role of Collaborators in Promoting Inclusion

Our team of project collaborators, including Dr. Kyle Slusher, Bob Whitney, and Fritz Westover, is committed to ensuring that the benefits of this project reach all members of the community. Dr. Slusher’s expertise in biological pest control, combined with Fritz Westover’s extensive experience in viticulture education, will help tailor outreach efforts to be as inclusive and practical as possible. Bob Whitney’s experience with organic producers will bridge the gap between research and practical application, making sustainable practices accessible.

The project will also utilize local partnerships, including those with community groups and cooperatives, to ensure that outreach and support are provided in culturally sensitive ways. Collaborating closely with these organizations allows us to reach more Hispanic producers, provide culturally sensitive support, and facilitate community-led adoption of sustainable practices.

Conclusion

This project is designed with a clear focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, specifically targeting the needs of underserved Hispanic producers in the South Plains of Texas. By providing educational resources, training, and direct support, the project empowers these producers to participate more fully in sustainable agriculture. The combination of technical expertise, community-based learning, and economic opportunity aims to reduce the disparities faced by minority growers, creating a more inclusive and resilient agricultural landscape in the region. Our commitment to accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and long-term support ensures that the benefits of sustainable viticulture are shared equitably among all contributors to the region’s agricultural heritage.

Timetable for Organic Vineyard IPM Project (April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2028)

The two-year timeline emphasizes ongoing pest monitoring, beneficial insect releases, habitat establishment, and trap cropping with targeted organic treatments. Continuous adjustments and data analysis ensure the integrated pest management approach evolves based on real-time observations, leading to a more sustainable organic vineyard system in the semi-arid South Plains of Texas.

Year	Time Period	Activities
Year 1: 2026	April 2026	– Project Kickoff and Planning: Begin site preparations, finalize monitoring tools, and install sticky traps and pheromone lures.
		– Beneficial Habitat Establishment: Begin planting habitat zones with species like butterfly milkweed, buttonbush, and grasses. Establish inter-row cover crops and perennial boundary zones.
	May – July 2026	– Initial Monitoring and Beneficial Releases: Establish some baseline numbers from pre-sampling counts.Start visual scouting and monitor sticky traps to determine pest levels.
		– Release Lacewings and Parasitic Wasps: Target aphid and leafhopper populations based on scouting data.
	August – September 2026	– Continue Habitat Establishment: Reinforce flowering islands and ensure nectar and pollen availability.
		– Adaptive Management: Adjust beneficial insect release schedules and organic treatment application based on monitoring results.
	October 2026	– Habitat Reinforcement: Prepare perennial habitat zones for overwintering; establish additional late-season nectar sources.
		– Data Collection: Collect grapevine health and pest management effectiveness data.
	November 2026 – February 2027	– Winter Maintenance: Maintain perennial zones and habitat areas to support beneficial insects over the winter. Evaluate pest management success from the previous season.
		– Planning for Year 2: Assess monitoring data, adapt habitat management strategies, and finalize beneficial insect release plans.
Year 2: 2026	March – April 2027	– Preparation for Growing Season: Inspect habitat zones, replant as needed and prepare monitoring tools.
		– Initial Beneficial Releases: Conduct targeted releases of beneficial insects to establish early-season populations.
	May – August 2027	– Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Practices: Continue monitoring, beneficial releases, and organic treatments as needed.
		– Habitat Development: Expand habitat zones with additional species like lemon beebalm and aromatic aster for mid-season support.
	September – October 2027	– Data Collection and Analysis: Gather data on pest populations, beneficial insect activity, and grape yield.
		– Evaluation of IPM Effectiveness: Compare results to Year 1 and adjust approaches based on data analysis.
	November 2027 – March 2028	– Final Evaluation and Reporting: Complete data analysis, prepare final project reports, and host a workshop to share outcomes with other vineyard growers.
		– Knowledge Transfer: Share findings through newsletters, social media, and workshops to encourage regional adoption of sustainable practices.

C. Outreach Plan for Integrated Pest Management in Organic Vineyards

Introduction

To ensure that the results of our integrated pest management (IPM) efforts in organic vineyards reach a broad audience, we will implement a comprehensive outreach plan. This plan aims to educate farmers, extension agents, specialists, and other stakeholders on sustainable pest management strategies tailored to vineyards in semi-arid regions like the South Plains of Texas. Our outreach will focus on practical understanding and adoption of beneficial insects, habitat management, trap cropping, and organic pest control methods. The goal is to foster a community of informed practitioners who can replicate and adapt these approaches, contributing to the sustainability and resilience of organic agriculture across the Southern region.

Workshops and Field Days

Workshops are at the core of our outreach strategy, offering in-depth, hands-on learning for farmers, vineyard managers, extension agents, and other agriculture professionals. Our workshops will cover key topics:

1. Beneficial Insects in Organic Vineyards: Workshops will focus on identifying and managing beneficial insects in the vineyard. Topics include which species to use, release strategies, and creating supportive habitats. Participants will learn about lacewings, ladybugs, parasitic wasps, and predatory mites, among others.
2. Organic Pest Control Practices: Workshops will provide guidance on using organic pest control products, such as neem oil, insecticidal soaps, and pyrethrins. We will cover application methods, treatment timing, and safe handling practices, as well as demonstrate equipment use, including backpack sprayers.

We will conduct general field days at key stages of the grape growing season, specifically at veraison and near harvest. These field days will demonstrate IPM practices in real time, allowing participants to witness the effectiveness of habitat management, beneficial insect releases, and organic pest treatments.

Special Professional Workshops

In addition to general outreach, we will hold a special professional workshop for NRCS agents, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agents, and specialists from other grape-growing regions. This workshop will enhance their capacity to support grape growers effectively, featuring both theoretical and field-based learning on IPM techniques, habitat establishment, and the use of trap crops and beneficial insects. These agents will be equipped with tools to support their local farmers and promote sustainable vineyard management.

Educational Publications and Digital Outreach

We will work with Extension to develop educational materials that outline project steps and highlight successful practices. These materials will be distributed through:

• Texas Organic News: Printed newsletters with a distribution list of 450 individuals will feature articles on IPM progress, beneficial insect use, and results of trap cropping and organic pest control.
• Email Newsletter and Blog Posts: Monthly email newsletters sent to 1,500 subscribers and blog postings on the organic website, AgriLifeOrganic.org, which attracts 1,900 visitors per month, will share updates, challenges, and solutions.
• Social Media Engagement: Organic post updates, videos, photos, and blog links on LinkedIn (1,350 followers), Facebook (1,250 followers), and X (300 followers), allowing direct engagement and fostering community discussion on sustainable vineyard management.

Online Training and Webinars

We will host online training sessions and webinars to reach those unable to attend in-person workshops. These webinars will cover similar content to our workshops, with a focus on practical IPM applications. Recordings will be available for those unable to attend live. Topics include habitat management for beneficial insects, pest monitoring, and using organic sprays in vineyards. These webinars will be interactive, allowing participants to ask questions and discuss challenges.

Curriculum Development

An educational curriculum will be developed based on the workshop and field day content. This curriculum will include instructional booklets, guides, video demonstrations, and online modules designed for farmers, students, and extension professionals. It will also include pest identification guides and habitat establishment blueprints. This curriculum will be used during training sessions and will be freely available on our website.

Dissemination through Professional Networks

We recognize the importance of peer-to-peer learning and professional dissemination. We will present our findings at regional meetings, such as the Texas Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (TOFGA) conference, as well as national conferences on organic agriculture if available. We also aim to publish findings in journals such as Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Journal and Organic Farming to reach a wider audience.

Outcomes and Impact Goals

Our outreach activities aim to:

1. Increase Farmer Knowledge and Adoption: By providing practical learning opportunities and a variety of educational materials, we hope to increase the adoption of sustainable pest management practices among vineyard operators across Texas and other Southern states.
2. Strengthen Extension and NRCS Support Capacity: By training agents and specialists, we aim to enhance their ability to assist local farmers, extending the reach and impact of our project.
3. Promote Sustainable Pest Management in Vineyards: Our goal is to demonstrate that effective pest management in organic vineyards is achievable without harsh chemical controls, contributing to vineyard viability and profitability.
4. Foster a Community of Practice: Through social media, newsletters, and online engagement, we will foster a community of growers, extension agents, and professionals who can support one another in adopting these sustainable practices.

By sharing our project results effectively, we hope to contribute to the success of our vineyards and the long-term sustainability of vineyards throughout the semi-arid Southern region.

Conclusion

The proposed outreach plan involves hands-on workshops, professional development for agents, educational materials, online engagement, and community building. Each component is designed to ensure broad dissemination of our research findings and equip stakeholders with the tools needed to implement effective pest management. By reaching both vineyard operators and agricultural professionals, we aim to create a ripple effect that enhances sustainable viticulture throughout the region.

D. Budget

Budget Outline for IPM Strategy in Organic Vineyards

Category Description and Justification

Personnel Labor – $11,200

1. Vineyard Managers (2 Salaries): Labor for managing overall project design, field setup, monitoring, data analysis, and implementation of IPM strategies.
   • Estimation: 10 hours/week for 8 weeks per year @ $50/hour for 2 years = $8,000.
2. Farmer Assistant: Labor for assisting in monitoring pest populations, setting up beneficial habitats, and managing treatments.
   • Estimation: 6 hours/week for 8 weeks per year @ $25/hour for 2 years = $2,400.
3. Vineyard Staff Training: Time allocated for training vineyard staff in monitoring techniques and IPM practices, including workshops and field days.
   • Estimation: 4 sessions @ $200/session = $800.

Travel – $7,800

1. Mileage for Field Site Visits: Mileage reimbursement for weekly travel to vineyard locations to conduct monitoring, apply treatments, and assess progress:
   • Estimation: 1000 miles/month for 4 months @ $0.70/mile for 2 years = $5,600.
2. Travel to Agriculture Conferences: Participation in a relevant organic farming or IPM conference to share findings and learn new techniques. This includes airfare, lodging, meals, and registration fees.
   • Estimation: Airfare: $350, Hotel (2 nights): $400, Meals: $150, Registration: $200 for 1 conference per year = $1,100 per year, $2,200 total.

Materials and Supplies – $9,160

1. Soil Sampling Kits: Soil nutrient and health tests to assess vineyard soil conditions and improvements over time.
   • Estimation: 10 soil kits @ $100/kit per year for 2 years = $2,000.
2. Soil Health Test Kits (Haney Test): To determine microbial activity and overall soil health.
   • Estimation: 4 tests/year @ $120/test for 2 years = $960.
3. Sticky Traps and Pheromone Lures: Monitoring tools to assess pest populations throughout the vineyard.
   • Estimation: 50 traps and lures @ $10 each per year for 2 years = $1,000.
4. Beneficial Habitat Seeds: Flowering plant and cover crop seeds for beneficial insect habitat creation (butterfly milkweed, buttonbush, clover, etc.).
   • Estimation: $1,200 for seeds to establish habitat zones over two years.
5. Beneficial Insect Releases: Purchase of lacewings, parasitic wasps, and predatory mites for biological augmentation.
   • Estimation: $1,500 for multiple releases timed to pest life cycles over two years.
6. Organic Fertilizers and Soil Amendments: Inputs to support cover crop growth and maintain soil health.
   • Estimation: $1,000 per year for 2 years = $2,000.
7. Monitoring Equipment: Handheld monitoring tools (e.g., magnifying glasses, sweep nets, etc.) for detailed observation of insect populations and plant health.
   • Estimation: $500 for necessary equipment.

Outreach – $4,400

1. Workshops and Field Day Costs: To conduct educational outreach and demonstration activities for local farmers and vineyard staff, including tent rentals, refreshments, and printed educational materials.
   • Estimation: Tent Rental: $1,500, Refreshments: $200, Educational Materials: $300 = $2,000 total per year, $4,000 total.
2. Port-o-john Rentals: To accommodate participants at field day events in remote vineyard locations.
   • Estimation: $200 for 2 events per year = $400.

Miscellaneous (Other Direct Costs) – $980

1. Forage Nutrient Analysis: Analysis to determine nutrient availability for grapevine growth after cover crop grazing or soil amendments.
   • Estimation: $20 per test x 3 times per year for 4 plots x 2 years = $480.
2. Video Documentation: Videographer fees for creating educational content showcasing IPM methods and results, to share online.
   • Estimation: $500 for the project duration.

Contingency Costs – $1,000

1. Contingency Fund: To cover unexpected costs or emergencies, such as additional materials, unplanned habitat establishment, or replacement of monitoring equipment.
   • Estimation: $1,000.

Corrected Total Estimated Budget: $36,452

Corrected Budget Summary

• Personnel Labor: $11,200
• Travel: $7,800
• Materials and Supplies: $9,160
• Outreach: $4,400
• Miscellaneous (Other Direct Costs): $980
• Contingency Costs: $1,000

Total: $36,452