On Tuesday, July 22 2024, the 1st Technical Conference of the Shield4Grape project was successfully held at the Institute of Grapevine and Wine Sciences (ICVV) in La Rioja, Spain.
Under the theme “Vineyards, powdery mildew and downy mildew: Resistant varieties and integrated management strategies” the conference brought together project partners and local stakeholders to explore innovative approaches in grapevine disease management.
Organised by CSIC, Universidad de La Rioja, and the Government of La Rioja, the event highlighted genetic improvement strategies and integrated pest management (IPM) aimed at reducing the use of chemical treatments in viticulture.
As part of the Programme participants visited the experimental agricultural farm of Valdegón, where they observed the ongoing trials and test plots established under the Shield4Grape project.
The conference featured the presentation of preliminary results, offering valuable insights into the progress of the project and its potential impact on more sustainable grape production across Europe.
Programme Highlights & Presentations
- 9:30 – Welcome and introduction to the Shield4Grape Project
Location: Valdegón Estate, La Rioja - 9:45–10:30 – Visit to experimental plot of PIWI varieties and demonstration of integrated disease management
Ms. Sara I. Blanco González, University of La Rioja–ICVV
Location: Valdegón Estate - 11:00–11:30 – Coffee break
Location: Institute of Vine and Wine Sciences, Finca La Grajera - 11:30–11:50 – Presentation: “A green shield for the vineyard – Protection against fungal diseases”
Dr. Cristina M. Menéndez, University of La Rioja–ICVV - 11:50–12:10 – “More sustainable vineyards with Shield4Grape: Preliminary results”
Dr. María M. Hernández Álamos, University of La Rioja–ICVV - 12:10–12:30 – “Experiences with mildew- and powdery mildew-resistant varieties in Álava – GrapeBreed4IPM”
Dr. Ana M. Diez-Navajas, Neiker - 12:30–12:50 – “PIWI varieties in Brazil: History and results”
Dr. Fabio Laner Lenk, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of São Paulo, Brazil - 12:50–13:00 – Discussion and closing of the day
