The 2009 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
The objective of this workshop is to highlight the success of grape-based industries in the region by examining their history and current potential, exploring the regional challenges faced by grape producers, examining progress in genetic and cultural solutions and showcasing the unique quality of grape products produced within.

Grape and wine industries have historically contributed to the agricultural wealth and productivity of selected states west of the Mississippi River.  Recently, however, all states within in the Western Heartland and Great Plains have enjoyed a period of tremendous growth in grape production acreage, in the number of operating wineries, and in the organizational structure and competitiveness of these industries.  Improvements in grapes, grape-growing techniques and wine-making have resulted in highly successful agribusinesses, job creation, increased tax revenues for state and local entities, increased local interest in grape products and internationally award-winning wines.   The objective of this workshop is to highlight the success of grape-based industries in the region by examining their history and current potential, exploring the regional challenges faced by grape producers, examining progress in genetic and cultural solutions and showcasing the unique quality of grape products produced within.