VASCM: Next Program Feb. 23 on Ecosystem Management & Biodiversity - and How Your Vineyard Can Benefit

[Mary Lindsay, Muns Vineyard]

Reminder:

The next program of the Viticulture Assn. is this coming Saturday, Feb. 
23, 9:00-2:00, on Ecosystem Management and Biodiversity Conservation 
Practices.

Numerous scientific studies and practical experiences have shown that 
biological diversity is a crucial factor in maintaining or increasing 
the sustainability and stability of farming systems.**Biodiversity in 
agricultural systems recycles nutrients, helps manage undesirable 
organisms, and more. This program will address habitat conservation and 
reasons for it; conservation of ponds and streams; native vegetation as 
cover crop; protection of native wildlife; hedgerows and other native 
planting; soil biodiversity; sheep, goats, etc. for weed control. 
Sustainable practices are good business practices.

This program and workshop brings you several speakers illustrating how 
you can apply and benefit from these practices:

- Ann Thrupp, Manager of Sustainability and Organic Development at 
Fetzer: Ann will talk about a study done in North Coast vineyards on 
Biodiversity as Part of Ecosystem Management in Sustainable Winegrowing

- Kent Reeves, now an ecology consultant whose clients include the Lodi 
Winegrape Commission: Kentwill address different vineyard habitats and 
the benefits of managing those habitats to encourage beneficial species.

- Rich Casale of the NRCS who will tell you how you can get funding for 
some of these practices.

Please note that there has been a change to the agenda. Unfortunately we 
will not be visiting Rhys Vineyards. We may be able to include another 
case study option instead.

There is no charge for this program, and lunch is included. This is 
sponsored by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance, and you 
will receive a free copy of the newly released 3rd edition of the CSWA's 
Sustainable Self-Assessment Workbook.  The CSWA is a joint program of 
CAWG and the Wine Institute (www.sustainablewinegrowing.org/).

Attached is a flier with the details. You can also find it posted to the 
VASCM website (including links to references in the description) at 
www.vascm.org.

RSVP is requested and would be very helpful, but not required. You can 
RSVP by replying to this message.

We hope to see you on the 23rd for this most excellent program.

Regards,
The VASCM Board:
Mary Lindsay
Rachel Ormes
Bruce Manildi
June Salsbury
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