Following the challenging frost and freeze events this past April, the Virginia Vineyards Association (VVA) is sharing critical updates regarding immediate educational resources, state-level relief efforts, and ongoing research initiatives available to our community.

đź“… Upcoming Event: Fruit & Berry Grower Freeze Management Webinar

To provide immediate support, Virginia Cooperative Extension is hosting a vital webinar this coming Tuesday to discuss practical management strategies and financial assistance programs.

How to Join

Click the link below to join the session directly on Tuesday. 👉 Join the Zoom Webinar Directly

Can’t make it live on Tuesday? Please register at the link anyway to ensure you automatically receive a copy of the webinar recording once it concludes.

Why You Should Attend

  • State & Federal Policy Updates: Hear directly from the Honorable Katie Frazier (Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry) and Lauren Vaughan (Virginia FSA Acting Farm Program Chief) regarding disaster relief and agency updates.
  • Dedicated Grape Breakout Room: Following the general policy updates, we will move into commodity-specific breakout rooms. Dr. Drew Harner will host our dedicated grape room as an interactive session to discuss practical, post-freeze vineyard management and answer your specific questions.

🏛️ Governor’s Press Release & VVA Response

Governor Spanberger recently issued an official press release outlining the Commonwealth’s actions to support agricultural sectors during this tough recovery period.

👉 Read Governor Spanberger’s Full Press Release Here

Reflecting on the road ahead and our community’s strength, VVA President AJ Greely shared the following message:

“While these losses are difficult for an industry already experiencing increased economic stressors, Virginia growers and winemakers are resilient. While fewer grapes will be grown in 2026, and less wine made, the Virginia Vineyards Association is working with the Governor and Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, as well as other state agencies and partners to address the losses felt by Virginia’s grape growers. We will use this weather event to focus our research and educational efforts on vineyard techniques and varietals to better prepare for the future health of Virginia Vineyards.”

We hope to see you all on the call this Tuesday as we work together to navigate the 2026 season. Please reach out to info@virginiavineyardsassociation.org if you have any questions.