July 14, 2026 (California) — Vineyard Team is pleased to announce Dr. Michelle Moyer, Professor of Viticulture and Statewide Viticulture Extension Specialist at Washington State University, as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Sustainable Ag Expo, November 10-11 in San Luis Obispo.
Advances in grape breeding are opening new possibilities for sustainable winegrowing. During her keynote, Dr. Moyer will explore the science behind modern grape varieties, how they are changing the conversation around disease management, and what these innovations could mean for the future of vineyard management.
The Science Behind Modern Grape Varieties
Modern grape varieties, including disease-resistant hybrids, represent one of the most promising developments in sustainable viticulture. By reducing disease pressure, these varieties have the potential to decrease pesticide use while improving vineyard resilience.
Dr. Moyer’s presentation, Modern Grape Varieties and Their Role in Sustainable Farming, will examine how these varieties are developed, the opportunities they create for growers, and the ways they challenge traditional approaches to vineyard management. Her research encourages growers to think beyond simply replacing varieties and instead consider how breeding, disease management, and sustainability work together as an integrated system.
Following the keynote, Dr. Moyer will join growers for a panel discussion exploring how these concepts translate from research into practical vineyard management.
Practical Research for Today’s Growers
Dr. Moyer’s keynote is part of a two-day education program featuring more than 30 speakers from leading universities, research organizations, and wine industry experts. Attendees will hear the latest research from experts representing UC Davis, Cornell University, Virginia Tech, USDA-ARS, and more while exploring topics such as biological pest management, soil health, climate adaptation, labor, automation, and farm economics.
The Sustainable Ag Expo also includes:
- 20+ Department of Pesticide Regulation and Certified Crop Advisor hours
- 60+ exhibitors
- Networking opportunities with growers, researchers, and agricultural businesses from across the industry
“Modern grape varieties represent one of the many innovations reshaping the future of winegrowing,” said Beth Vukmanic, Executive Director of Vineyard Team. “Dr. Moyer has a remarkable ability to connect cutting-edge research with practical vineyard management, giving growers the knowledge they need to evaluate new ideas and make informed decisions for their operations.”
“We’re excited to welcome Michelle as this year’s keynote speaker, said Beth Vukmanic, Executive Director of Vineyard Team. “She has a remarkable ability to connect with audiences and spark meaningful conversations.”
The Sustainable Ag Expo will be held November 10-11, 2026, at the Madonna Expo Center in San Luis Obispo.
Learn more and register at SustainableAgExpo.org.
About the Sustainable Ag Expo
The Sustainable Ag Expo is a multi-day seminar and tradeshow that connects farmers, ag professionals, and pest control advisors with the latest in sustainable farming research, resource issues, and business trends. Hosted by Vineyard Team, the event draws decision-makers representing over 225,000 acres of vineyards, orchards, and row crops.
About Vineyard Team
Founded in 1994 by Central Coast growers, Vineyard Team advances sustainable winegrowing through education, research, and industry collaboration. The organization is internationally recognized for its leadership in sustainability and its role connecting growers, researchers, and agricultural businesses.
