Mothballing Vineyards

Methods to fallow, idle, or "mothball" vineyards is a new area of outreach, education and research for Oregon and US grape growers due to the current grape and wine markets. Active research to address local and regional concerns is underway. In the meantime, we offer these resources for consideration. First, consider your options and understand the economics of your vineyard and/or winery. Below we include an enterprise budget developed in 2018; costs have increased since that time, mostly due to labor. New enterprise budgets are forthcoming in early 2026 as well as Oregon-specific guidance on mothballing vineyards.

Mothballing: Considerations when taking vineyards out of production

This article by Dr. Chris Chen, UC Cooperative Extension, provides a summary of the concerns faced by California growers and some considerations for minimal farming blocks and avoiding vineyard removal during a difficult grape market.

Christopher C. Chen | Oct 2025 | Online resource

Factors involved in 'mothballing' vineyards

This article by Marcel Essling at the Australian Wine Research Institute provides growers with what they need to know and consider.

Marcel Essling | Oct 2025 | Online resource

Vineyard Idling: Winter Activities

Find out what grape growers can do in arid regions to prepare mothballed vineyards for winter.

Michelle Moyer, Markus Keller | Oct 2025 | Online resource

Vineyard Removal and Waste Management Guide

This new guide was produced and released in August 2025 to support needs of the Australian industry, Information is helpful as growers consider removals in Oregon but should heed to local conditions and regulations that will govern proper removal and waste disposal.

Australian Wine Research Institute | Oct 2025 | Online resource

Cost of establishing and managing a vineyard in Oregon

This publication provides an economic analysis of the costs to establish and manage a Pinot noir vineyard in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Although the information is specific to a Willamette Valley scenario, the information is useful for those who are planning to establish a vineyard.

Patricia A. Skinkis, Beau Olen | Nov 2018 | Online resource

Oct 2025

Author

Dr. Patty Skinkis standing in OSU's research vineyard

Patricia A. Skinkis

Viticulture Extension Specialist

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