April 15, 2025 (Atascadero, CA) — Through the ups and downs of the industry, growers and businesses have turned to Vineyard Team for programs and events that keep them connected with the winegrowing community.
John Aver of Aver Family Vineyards shares, “I have truly enjoyed being a member and have learned a lot of useful information over the years. Thank you for a great organization that supports all of the grape growers and wineries.”
For over 30 years, Vineyard Team has been dedicated to advancing sustainability through education. This impact is made possible by its members, whose support drives the organization’s mission. The grassroots, grower-to-grower education that the organization was built on is essential to its ongoing success.
Providing Value Through Education and Networking
Sustainable farmers want education that addresses issues they are facing in the vineyard. Vineyard Team’s Tailgates are in-field events designed by growers, for growers. They focus on specific sustainable farming issues while encouraging peer-to-peer learning.
Zachary Merkel, Grower Relations Manager at J. Lohr Vineyards, shares, “Being a member of Vineyard Team has given me access to some of the top minds in the wine industry. I am extremely grateful for what they have done and continue to do for our local industry.”
Sustainably-minded growers must connect with the right products and services to help them achieve their goals. The Sustainable Ag Expo is where these connections are made, and Vineyard Team’s Business members have the exclusive opportunity to exhibit at this annual event. Plus, attendees can earn continuing education hours by attending talks from some of the world’s top experts in the field.
Dave Haggmark, Regional Sales Manager at Sunridge Nurseries, shares, “The Sustainable Ag Expo brings in many key players in the industry. The quality of the attendees includes business and vineyard owners–key vineyard management people making decisions. This gives us direct contact with purchasers.”
Anyone in the sustainable wine community who wants shorter, more frequent, and less formal education opportunities is welcome to indulge in Vineyard Team’s Sustainable Winegrowing Podcast. 20- to 40-minute episodes are the perfect way to glean insights from international experts while commuting between vineyards.
Sometimes, a farmer’s schedule is just too packed to make room for in-person educational events. Later this year, Vineyard Team will release online courses that enable members to earn valuable DPR (Department of Pesticide Regulation) and CCA (Certified Crop Advisor) hours for a nominal fee. A winegrape farmer in Paso Robles, CA shared, “The quality of the content and the flexibility of the online platform are awesome. Super interesting and useful; easy to access.” Members can check out the courses to stay informed and ahead of industry trends in a way that fits into their busy schedules.
Advancing Sustainability Together
Whether you’re a grower, winery, or business looking to connect with others in the industry, Vineyard Team invites you to join the mission of advancing sustainability and education in the wine industry.
Executive Director Beth Vukmanic expresses, “Thank you to our members for being the heart of everything we do. Your commitment to sustainability and innovation drives us forward. Together, we ensure that future generations of winegrowers are equipped with the tools they need to thrive, fostering a sustainable and successful future for the entire industry.”
For more information about joining the Vineyard Team or to learn more about our programs, visit www.vineyardteam.org.
About Vineyard Team
Arising from growers’ interest to educate and guide themselves towards sustainable winegrowing practices, Vineyard Team has become an internationally recognized leader in the sustainability movement since 1994.
