Grape management course to be offered

Oklahoma

When people think about agricultural crops in Oklahoma, wheat, cotton and soybeans are what most often come to mind.

However, grape production is rapidly becoming an established industry within Oklahoma, said Eric Stafne, fruit and nut crop specialist with the Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service.

In an effort to familiarize potential grape growers with what it takes to become a successful grape producer, OSU is offering the Oklahoma Grape Management course. The course begins March 8 and will run through Sept. 27. Participants will meet once during the months of March, April, May, June, July, August and September. This schedule coincides with the grape growing season.

"The course will cover all aspects of the grape growing industry and is particularly geared toward growers who have just planted their vineyard or are thinking about doing it," Stafne said. "The grape growing industry has really expanded in the last five years. Here in Oklahoma the main focus is on wine grapes, not table grapes."

Course participants will experience both a classroom learning setting as well as getting hands-on experience during each class meeting. A portion of each class will take place in the demonstration vineyard at the Oklahoma Fruit Research Station near Perkins.

Course presenters and collaborators will be a combination of OSU professionals and professionals within the industry who will share their expertise and research-based information.

"The classes will cover topics such as vineyard establishment, site selection, weed control, pruning and training, disease management, propagation, irrigation, business management, wine quality evaluation, pest control, equipment and grape varieties," he said. "We'll also discuss important issues such as money investment, risks and the commitment required to establish a prosperous business."

The course is limited to 70 participants. Registration is $250 per person. For more information, call Stephanie Larimer at 405-744-5404, or e-mail her at stephanie.larimer@okstate.edu.

"The wine industry is becoming a stimulus to Oklahoma's economy. There are more than 40 licensed wineries in the state. This type of industry helps boost our state's tourism," Stafne said.

B

11

2/5/07

5 Star OK

Date: 2/1/07

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