Key Takeaways:
- Sonoma County Winegrowers (SCW) announces a significant collaboration with John Deere to advance sustainable agriculture in one of the world’s premier winegrowing regions.
- This partnership marks a new addition to SCW’s Farm of the Future project, a living lab aimed at piloting agricultural innovations for global application.
- The collaboration celebrates a decade of Sonoma County’s leadership in sustainable winegrowing, achieving nearly 100% certification of its vineyards.
- SCW continues to push the boundaries of sustainability, with over 70% of its vineyard acres now glyphosate-free and ongoing efforts to address climate adaptation and regenerative agriculture.
Partnership with John Deere to Innovate Sustainable Winegrowing
A New Era of Sustainable Winegrowing
At their annual meeting, Sonoma County’s 1,800 certified sustainable winegrape growers were introduced to a groundbreaking collaboration with John Deere, setting the stage for future agricultural innovations. This partnership underscores SCW’s commitment to pioneering sustainable practices in winegrowing, leveraging John Deere’s technological expertise to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of vineyard operations.
Innovating for a Sustainable Future
The Farm of the Future initiative serves as a beacon for agricultural innovation, providing a platform for Sonoma County winegrowers to trial and implement cutting-edge solutions. The inclusion of John Deere, alongside other industry giants and emerging companies, promises to drive significant advancements in sustainable agriculture, focusing on mechanization and resource optimization to extend vineyard longevity and productivity.
A Decade of Sustainability Leadership
Under the leadership of Karissa Kruse, president and CEO of SCW, Sonoma County has solidified its position as a global leader in sustainable winegrowing. Achieving its ambitious goal of becoming the nation’s first 100% certified sustainable wine region by 2019, SCW’s efforts have not only led to widespread vineyard certification but also to substantial environmental and social initiatives, including a notable reduction in glyphosate use and significant wage increases for vineyard employees.
Addressing Climate Challenges Head-On
Sonoma County Winegrowers’ participation in the California Land Stewardship Institute’s Climate Adaptation Certification Program highlights its proactive approach to climate resilience. By developing long-term strategies and fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability, SCW aims to model future-proof agricultural practices for the global community.
Expanding Influence Through Sports Marketing
SCW’s unique sports marketing partnerships with teams like the San Francisco Giants and the Houston Rockets exemplify its strategy to broaden the appeal of Sonoma County wines. These efforts aim to connect with younger, diverse audiences, enhancing the visibility and appreciation of the region’s wines at major events and venues.
Empowering Vineyard Employees and Communities
The Fundación de la Voz de los Viñedos, SCW’s foundation, plays a crucial role in supporting vineyard workers and their families. Through recognition programs and leadership training, the foundation seeks to elevate the contributions of vineyard employees, reflecting SCW’s holistic approach to sustainability that encompasses both environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Sonoma County Latest News
Sonoma County Winegrowers Unite Innovative Companies for Inaugural Farm of the Future Summit (2023/07/26)
Industry leaders gathered in Sonoma County for the Farm of the Future Summit, spearheaded by the Sonoma Winegrowers. The summit focused on identifying challenges and opportunities for sustainable farming practices and highlighted Sonoma County’s global leadership in sustainability and regenerative agriculture. The aim is to create solutions to climate impacts and changes in the marketplace and share these insights with farmers worldwide.
Sonoma County Winegrowers’ Innovations In Sustainable Farming (2023/02/21)
Sonoma County Winegrowers, a marketing and educational organization dedicated to promoting Sonoma County as a premier grape-growing region, is taking an innovative step to build upon its role as a global leader in sustainable farming. The organization’s president and CEO, Karissa Kruse, unveiled several new partnerships and programs at the annual meeting, including a forward-thinking effort called the “Farm of the Future.”
