A series of forums involving nurseries and vine improvement groups have been launched to address the immediate management of Grapevine Pinot gris virus (GPGV).
The forums are part of a new project, funded by Wine Australia, which is bringing critical knowledge from the recently completed review of GPGV to the providers of viticulture planting material in order to minimise the virus’ spread across Australia’s grape growing regions.
These direct discussions with the nursery and vine improvement sector are intended to help inform business decisions on management of GPGV in foundation and source material and to prevent further spread of GPGV through commercial sale of planting material.
This in turn will minimise the potential impact that this virus – by itself or in conjunction with other viruses – may have on the health and productivity of commercial vineyards and sources of propagation material.
This new project will be overseen by Vinehealth Australia and undertaken by Fiona Constable, Senior Plant Virologist from Agriculture Victoria Research, Victorian Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, and Libby Tassie, Principal Consultant at Tassie Viticultural Consulting.
The final report from the original review ‘A comprehensive review of Grapevine Pinot gris virus (GPGV), including recommendations for future research, development and extension work in Australia’ will shortly be published on the Wine Australia website.
For more information about the forums please contact Vinehealth Australia on (08) 8273 0550.