Continuing education is essential for wine grape growers to stay current with research, adopt improved practices and maintain pesticide license requirements. Yet in the Walla Walla Valley, producers lacked access to locally relevant, science-based training opportunities.
To meet this need, Oregon State University Extension Service established VIT TECH — the Walla Walla Valley Viticulture Technical Group — in 2021. The program delivers expert-led presentations focused on sustainable viticulture practices tailored to the region. Presenters include academic researchers and industry professionals.
VIT TECH supports sustainable wine grape production, strengthens local networks and enhances the long-term success of viticulture in the Walla Walla Valley.
Between 2022 and 2024, VIT TECH hosted 12 seminars and three field tours. The events attracted 292 participants and awarded 55 continuing education credits for pesticide license holders. Sessions addressed key topics such as soil health, insect pest management, novel irrigation strategies and spring frost protection.
Most presentations were recorded and published on the OSU Extension website, allowing grape growers across Oregon and beyond to benefit. These online recordings have received 380 views to date.
Post-event surveys indicate strong outcomes. In 2022, 100% of respondents learned something new, 75% said they were likely to change their practices and 92% were extremely likely to attend future sessions. In 2023, 100% learned something new, 64% planned to adjust their practices and all respondents said they would attend again. In 2024, 83% learned something new, 20% planned to change their practices and 83% indicated they would return.
Due to the program’s success, VIT TECH expanded in 2024 to include the inaugural Walla Walla Grape Day. Co-hosted with the Walla Walla Community College Enology and Viticulture Program, the full-day symposium featured educational sessions, pesticide recertification credits, a small tradeshow and networking opportunities.
Walla Walla Grape Day drew 45 participants from across the grape industry and awarded 115 pesticide credits to license holders in Oregon and Washington. Survey responses showed 100% of attendees increased their viticulture knowledge, 100% intended to apply what they learned and the event received a quality rating of 5.33 out of 6.
By offering science-based education and hands-on training, VIT TECH supports sustainable wine grape production, strengthens local networks and enhances the long-term success of viticulture in the Walla Walla Valley.
