By Blake Jackson
New York ranks as the third-largest wine producer in the U.S. and a major contributor of table grapes, with over 134 varieties cultivated across nearly 16,000 acres.
However, the growing demand for Empire State grapes has brought new challenges, particularly from pests and diseases. Alejandro Calixto, Director of the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program (NYSIPM), highlighted the increasing threats faced by grape growers.
“Grape growers are facing unprecedented threats from invasive species like spotted lanternfly and powdery mildew, making resources, research, and extension programs more essential than ever,” said Calixto. A recent study by NYSIPM Agricultural Economist Allan Pinto suggests that spotted lanternfly alone could cost producers millions.
To better support growers, NYSIPM has appointed entomologist and educator Kyle Bekelja as the statewide grape IPM coordinator. Bekelja, who starts his role in February, brings extensive experience in fruit IPM and a strong research background.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kyle to the New York State Integrated Pest Management team,” Calixto said. “His extension experience, research background, and knowledge of fruit IPM, and his ability to connect with people will prove invaluable to New York grape growers.”
Bekelja, with a Ph.D. in entomology from Virginia Tech, shared his excitement to work with growers, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and NYSIPM colleagues to develop strategies to address pest challenges.
“I'm excited to meet producers in each grape-growing region, learn how they've adapted their businesses for success, and decipher how integrated pest management can help them achieve their goals,” Bekelja said.
In addition to pests, Bekelja pointed to climate and regulatory changes as emerging threats to the grape industry.
"Some of the biggest challenges I see impacting New York grape growers include less predictable growing conditions, changing pesticide regulations, and invasive pests. Weather conditions that divert from the norm can complicate pest management in various ways while also making vines more vulnerable,” Bekelja said, noting a late-spring frost that resulted in significant losses for growers in 2024.
“Additionally, for better or worse, changes in the availability of certain pesticides will have ramifications for our grape growers across the state.”
Despite these challenges, Bekelja remains optimistic, eager to help grape growers navigate these pressures and thrive in the future.
Photo Credit: pixabay-vinotecarium
Categories: New York, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables