Ninety-five grape growers from around the state attended the WGGA Spring Vineyard School on Wednesday April 2nd. The event was graciously hosted by Philippe and Julie Coquard at Wollersheim Winery in Sauk Prairie, Wisconsin.

WGGA Board President Ryan Prellwitz opened the event with introductory remarks and introduced each speaker in turn throughout the day. The morning sessions included Dan Mahr’s presentation “Insect Identification and Control in the Vineyard”, and Patty McManus’ “Early Detection and Treatment of Diseases”. Both speakers are from the University of Wisconsin. Philippe Coquard’s talk “The ABC’s of Growing Grapes in Wisconsin” rounded out the morning’s activities.

Following a buffet lunch, the afternoon was devoted to outside sessions in and around the vineyard. Vineyard management practices and an equipment review was conducted by Philippe Coquard and two pruning workshops held by Bruce Reeve of Wollersheim Winery.

By all accounts, the day-long Vineyard School was viewed as an informative and successful event. Here are just a few of the many positive comments received:

“…this was an excellent day! Even though we have been growing grapes for 10 years we continue to learn more. Well worth the fee!”

“…the training was really more than expected, so well organized, and on time!”

Photos from the Spring Vineyard School

Over 100 people attended the event.

Philippe Coquard giving a presentation on the basics of grape growing in Wisconsin

Philippe Coquard showing the equipment used in the vineyard.

Bruce Reeve giving a pruning demonstration on the various stages of growth in the vineyard.

Another photo of Bruce Reeve’s pruning demonstration.

Dan Mahr giving a presentation on insects in the vineyard

Patty McManus presenting about Early Detection and treatment of diseases.