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The viticulture and technical issues program is involved in directing and funding production research performed by scientists from research institutions including the University of California, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and California State University. The research program is designed to improve fruit characteristics and quality as well as table grape production practices; thus increasing grower efficiency and enhancing sustainability while providing consumers with the grapes they want. The USDA patenting and licensing program is directed through the program as well.
Technical issues related to production, pesticides, pest exclusion, and postharvest technologies are coordinated through this program as are many aspects of the technical analysis required for international market access negotiations and managing a variety of industry issues.
- In 2005, funded 17 projects as part of the core viticulture research program at a total of just over $457,000.
- Works with other grape research organizations to jointly support certain research projects. In 2005, there were seven projects funded that were of benefit to the table grape industry with a cost of more than $600,000. The commission portion of that funding was approximately $230,000.
- Conducts market access research, identifying alternative pest control tactics and postharvest programs that allow the industry to gain and retain access to worldwide markets. Recent projects were instrumental in the opening of Australia and the maintenance of the New Zealand and United Kingdom markets.
- Advises the industry on production and shipping issues that impact domestic and international trade.
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