Two Days, Bid Ideas: What's on the Agenda?

From disease-resistant grape varieties and biological pest management to vineyard technology, soil health, and labor solutions, the 2026 Sustainable Ag Expo is bringing a wide range of research and practical expertise to San Luis Obispo, November 10–11. The two-day program brings together university researchers, growers, and industry professionals to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping California agriculture.

With 10.5 DPR hours, including 1 hour of Laws & Regulations, and 15 CCA hours approved, attendees can make progress toward continuing education requirements while gaining insights to take back to their operations.

 

Day 1: New Varieties, Natural Solutions, and Smarter Vineyard Management

Tuesday's program opens with a look at the future of winegrape growing.

Dr. Michelle Moyer of Washington State University will kick off the Expo with Modern Grape Varieties and Their Role in Sustainable Farming, exploring how disease-resistant grape varieties could change approaches to vineyard management. A follow-up panel featuring Moyer, Kevin Judkins of Inland Desert Nursery, and Adam Tolmach of The Ojai Vineyard will take the conversation from research to real-world growing and winemaking experiences.

The morning continues with a closer look at the role wildlife can play in vineyard pest management. Dr. Matt Johnson of Cal Poly Humboldt will share research on pest-eating songbirds, followed by Bob Peak of Pacific Wildlife Care, who will discuss barn owls as a natural rodent management tool.

Plus, during lunch attendees will have an opportunity to taste wines made from hybrid varieties and see some feathered friends.

In the afternoon, the focus turns to practical tools and decisions facing growers today:

• Biological crop inputs: Dr. Pam Marrone will explore emerging biological products for pest management and plant health.

• Sprayer technology: Dr. Brent Warneke of Oregon State University will compare vineyard sprayer technologies, their tradeoffs, and opportunities for improved efficiency.

• Soil health: Dr. Charlotte Decock of Cal Poly will share findings from a study of 87 California vineyard blocks, connecting soil health measurements with management practices.

• Fleet modernization: Eric Steiger of Field Asset Solutions will discuss equipment investments, grant opportunities, and strategies for managing an evolving vineyard fleet.

Day 1 wraps up with Sustainable Gear & Beer, giving attendees a chance to explore agricultural technology and continue conversations outside the seminar room.

 

Day 2: Tackling Vineyard Challenges with Research and Collaboration

Wednesday's program addresses some of the most pressing issues facing California growers, from disease and invasive pests to workforce management and regulatory compliance.

Dr. Akif Eskalen of UC Davis will open the day with emerging approaches to sustainable vineyard disease management, including biological control, pruning wound protection, and precision strategies.

Dr. David Hearick of Cal Poly will follow with a look at invasive insects and steps growers can take to prepare for potential pest introductions.

The morning also features practical approaches to agricultural labor challenges. Carlos Casteneda and Christina Shallanberger of Casteneda & Sons will examine the H-2A visa program, regulatory changes, and workforce stability.

Additional sessions include research from Dr. Yiliang Cheng of Fresno State on thyme-based biofungicides and their potential role in vineyard disease management.

Wednesday afternoon features two sessions dedicated to one of the industry's persistent pest challenges: Vine mealybug.

Dr. Monica Cooper of UC Agriculture and Natural Resources will explore biological control and coordinated regional programs for vine mealybug management, including the role of natural enemies and early intervention.

A follow-up panel brings together researchers and industry professionals to discuss the vine mealybug and leafroll complex, examining what's working, where challenges remain, and how regional collaboration can strengthen management efforts.

The Expo concludes with Angelina Ceja of AgSafe, who will share common pesticide safety violations and practical strategies for improving compliance.

 

Education That Goes Beyond the Presentation

The Sustainable Ag Expo is designed to connect research with the decisions growers make every day.

Throughout both days, attendees will have opportunities to ask questions, exchange experiences with researchers and fellow growers, and explore products and services from more than 60 exhibitors.

Whether you're looking for new pest management strategies, considering equipment investments, or planning for the future of your vineyard, the program offers opportunities to learn from experts across a wide range of disciplines.

The 2026 Sustainable Ag Expo takes place November 10–11 at the Madonna Inn Expo Center in San Luis Obispo, California.

Explore the full two-day program and register for the Expo.

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