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Quarterly Update from Beth Vukmanic - For Growers, By Growers

As we round out the year, I want to personally invite you to the 2025 Sustainable Ag Expo, the go-to place to earn DPR and CCA Continuing Education hours and connect with other growers before harvest wraps up. 

This is not your average ag conference. Our event is completely grower-driven—designed by growers, for growers—to deliver practical, relevant information that can immediately benefit your operation. 

You can earn up to 17.5 DPR and 27 CCA hours through a combination of in-person sessions (November 11–12) and on-demand online courses (October 13–November 28). 

We’ve got an incredible lineup this year, covering topics you’ve told us matter most: 

One of our very own Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholars, Alberto Ramirez, will present his master’s research on sulfur applications and grape quality, a proud and full-circle moment for this program. We’re also hosting our first-ever Graduate Student Poster Session, where you can explore emerging research and connect directly with student presenters. 

We know the most impactful insights often come from each other. That’s why we’ve created casual, meaningful networking moments: 

You’ll walk away with real insight into what’s working in the field, and how your peers are tackling today’s biggest challenges. 

Thank you for being part of our community. You make this event—and everything we do—possible. 

Sincerely,

Beth Vukmanic

Pop Quiz

What milestone is the Sustainable Ag Expo celebrating this year? 

A. 15th Anniversary

B. 18th Anniversary

C. 20th Anniversary

(Scroll to the bottom for the answer!)
 
 
Reporting from the Field: Tailgate Recap 

This year, Tailgate season brought together growers, experts, and Vineyard Team business and grower members for practical learning in the vineyard. Each gathering focused on solutions to real-world challenges, while also fostering the kind of networking and connection that make our community stronger. 

What we accomplished together and how it all added up: 

Along the way, we toured dry farming sites, had a hands-on biochar field day, learned about increasing vineyard biodiversity, explored how to utilize technology to minimize row passes, and so much more. 

Your participation helps strengthen vineyards, businesses, and our shared commitment to sustainability. 

Stay tuned—we’re putting together an exciting educational programming lineup for 2026! 

Newly Certified & Committed to Sustainability

Congratulations to the 136 applicants who achieved SIP Certified for 2025! Together, they represent nearly 41,000 vineyard acres and six wineries across California, Oregon, and Michigan. Their commitment to sustainable practices strengthens their businesses, communities, and the industry as a whole. We’re proud to have them in the SIP Certified family.

Ag Order 4.0 Help Is Here

Now for the third year, SIP Certified is partnering with Preservation Inc to submit TNA and INMP reports on behalf of its central coast members to fulfill reporting requirements for Ag Order 4.0. We anticipate submitting over 140 TNA and 50 INMP reports, saving members and water board staff hours of administrative work.

ReSIProcal February: More Guests, More Perks

February is fast approaching. Are you getting in on the ReSIProcal action? Brands that make their wine with SIP Certified fruit can boost their February tasting room traffic with reciprocal tastings during ReSIProcal February. Click here to learn more.

Scholar Spotlight on Kristal  

Kristal is currently studying kinesiology at Fresno State with the goal of becoming a physical therapist. 

She recently completed 286 volunteer hours at Santa Maria Post Acute, a skilled nursing facility, an experience that deeply shaped her future goals. 

“When I met my first Spanish-speaking patient, he told me he used to work in the vineyards. I shared with him that my parents also work in the vineyards, and that I had worked alongside them last summer.

As I continued to get to know him, I had the opportunity to translate between him and one of the occupational therapy assistants. I never imagined that my ability to speak Spanish would impact my patients in this way. His concerns were heard, and it made me happy to make a difference.

He reminded me of my own parents as they continue to get older. It made me want to continue being an advocate for Spanish-speaking patients, to greet them, reassure them, and let them know I can communicate with them.” 

Kristal’s story is a powerful reminder of the long-term impact of your support. 

What’s Up Next?

P.S. Pop Quiz answer is C. 20th Anniversary

A picture is worth a 1000 words. Enjoy these throwbacks from the very first Sustainable Ag Expo in 2005.

 

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