LODI, CA – Jan. 27, 2025 – The Lodi Winegrape Commission proudly celebrates 20 years of certification under its pioneering LODI RULES for Sustainable Winegrowing program. LODI RULES has led the way in promoting farming practices that respect the environment, support employee well-being, and ensure long-term economic viability. What originally began as an integrated pest management outreach program in 1992 grew into the infamous Lodi Winegrowers Workbook (1999), which formed the basis for LODI RULES. In 2005, 1,555 acres of Lodi vineyards owned by six growers were the first to become certified sustainable. Today, over 75,000 acres are certified across California, Washington, and Israel, and the influence of this groundbreaking program resonates across the globe.
“Today, LODI RULES stands as an internationally recognized model for sustainable agriculture – emulated around the world – born from the dedication of Lodi growers who built this program from the ground up and the scientists who supported their courageous endeavor,” said Stuart Spencer, Executive Director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission.
A Grassroots Program with a Global Reach
Developed by growers for growers, LODI RULES is comprised of more than 150 rigorous farming practice standards, holistically addressing multiple facets of viticulture, including ecosystem enhancement, soil health, water conservation, community relations, human resources, pest management, and successful business policies. More than 70 of the program’s farming practices can measurably reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, helping to mitigate the negative effects of climate change.
“It feels amazing to be part of a community dedicated to learning how we can do better and then implementing those changes in a meaningful way,” noted Dr. Stephanie Bolton, LODI RULES Sustainable Winegrowing Director. “Growers and wineries find immense value in LODI RULES, sharing with us that the program helps them farm in a more thoughtful manner, feel more connected, and communicate their story to the world.”
Honoring the Sustainability Pioneers
Recently, at the LODI RULES annual meeting, five of the original six growers were honored for achieving the milestone of 20 years of certification:
- Mohr-Fry Ranches (Jerry Fry, Bruce Fry, and Mohrgan Fry)
- Vino Farms, LLC. (John Ledbetter, Craig Ledbetter, and Kim Ledbetter-Bronson)
- Watts Vineyards (Keith Watts)
- Colligere Farm Management (Robert Pirie and Brandon Anderson)
- Trinchero Family Estates (Chris Trinchero)
Each of these five family farms has played a key role in shaping the foundation of LODI RULES, demonstrating how purposeful, science-based viticulture leads to better wine quality, healthier ecosystems, and thriving communities. Their leadership continues to elevate sustainability within Lodi and serves as an inspiration to growers around the world – encouraging others to adopt, adapt, and raise the bar on sustainable practices in their own operations.
“These families represent the unwavering spirit of Lodi growers,” Spencer added. “They’ve proven that sustainability is far more than a buzzword. Their commitment sets the standard for winegrowers everywhere.”
Robert Pirie reflects: “We take sustainability seriously. I am honored to have been a member of the original group who created the region’s LODI RULES for Sustainable Winegrowing program. It’s humbling to see how far the program has progressed and to see its influence on farming practices here in Lodi, throughout the entire state, and now, the world.”
Looking Ahead
As the Lodi Winegrape Commission celebrates two decades of sustainable leadership, it remains dedicated to continued innovation, grower education, and global collaboration. By evolving its standards and expanding its reach, LODI RULES will continue to champion winegrowing practices that protect the environment, benefit local communities, and ensure the legacy of vineyards for generations to come.
About the Lodi Winegrape Commission
Established in 1991, the Lodi Winegrape Commission represents the common interests of Lodi winegrowers with programs in marketing, education, research, and sustainable viticulture. The Commission collectively and effectively promotes Lodi’s vibrant, multi-generational farming community and California’s most dynamic wine region. Comprised of nine commissioners and nine alternates, the board of directors provides direction and input on behalf of the region’s 750 winegrowers. For more information about the Lodi Winegrape Commission, visit lodigrowers.com.
About the Lodi American Viticultural Area (AVA)
A historic winegrowing region since the 1850s, Lodi is perfectly situated 40 miles south of Sacramento and 90 miles east of San Francisco. Lodi’s Mediterranean climate and distinct soils allow its growers to cultivate more than 130 winegrape varieties, making Lodi the most diverse winegrowing region in the United States. The region also serves as home to 80 boutique wineries specializing in small-lot, handmade wines that have garnered major awards at domestic and international wine competitions.
Lodi is naturally a leader in sustainable viticulture. Created by California farmers and accredited by world-renowned scientists, LODI RULES is America’s original sustainable winegrowing program. Held to a high standard of scientific rigor and excellence, the program emphasizes environmentally and socially responsible practices, while keeping economic feasibility in mind for long-term business success. Today, there are more than 75,000 acres certified throughout California, in Washington, and Israel. For more information about the Lodi AVA or LODI RULES, visit lodiwine.com and lodirules.org.
