In this issue...
Noteworthy
Policy + Politics
Is Your Business in Compliance?
WSDA Pesticide Licensing Certification and Training Rule Changes
Around the Industry
Leafroll Disease Now in Replacement Program
WA State Wine Hires Commission Research Program Manager
Reminder: Annual Wine Grape Report is Now Open
California Wine Institute Launches Resource to Help Wine Industry Connect with Consumers
Washington State University Re-Design Initiative
Member Spotlight
Annual Meeting Brings Members Together Post-Harvest
Winegrowers Team Hits the Road to Connect with Members
Noteworthy
WineVit®: Refined for 2026 Industry Needs (FREE ARTICLE)
Washington Winegrowers invites all industry members to attend WineVit® 2026 on February 10–11 in Kennewick. This year’s event is more accessible, affordable, and relevant, with a condensed day-and-a-half format plus a pre-event webinar on January 15. The Trade Show is free on Feb. 10, and activities include the Industry Research Snapshot, Awards, and Town Hall 2026. Early registration through January 8 is just $154.
Justin Andrews Elected to Winegrowers Board Beginning in 2026 (FREE ARTILCE)
Washington Winegrowers announces its 2026 board election results. Incumbents Patrick Rawn, John Derrick, and Freddy Arredondo were re-elected, and Justin Andrews of McKinley Springs joins for his first term. A fourth-generation farmer, Andrews brings hands-on vineyard and winery experience, a background in enology and viticulture, and a commitment to sustainable practices, education, and advocacy for Washington’s grape and wine industry.
Winegrowers Membership Includes Healthcare Option (FREE ARTICLE)
Washington Winegrowers members can take advantage of Washington Farm Bureau Healthcare, a membership perk offering group healthcare designed for agricultural businesses. Plans include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and employee assistance programs, with PPO, HSA, and HMO options through Premera Blue Cross. Flexible enrollment, extensive provider networks, and competitive rates make it a valuable benefit for businesses of all sizes.
Policy + Politics
Industry News From Olympia
Ecology is taking comments on new agricultural clean-water guidance. ESSB 5814 adds sales tax to certain business services and event registrations. LCB proposed rules to expand outdoor alcohol service, add civic campus and fan zone options, and update related licensing requirements, with comments open through Dec. 11, 2025.
Industry News From D.C.
Specialty crop groups are urging Congress for economic relief as growers face rising costs. The government shutdown ended with a CR funding key ag programs through Jan. 30. The 2026 ag budget boosts research, protects winegrapes from FDA rules, and restricts intoxicating hemp sales. Tariffs are shifting under new trade actions, and updated dietary guidelines are expected in December.
Is Your Business in Compliance?
WSDA Pesticide Licensing Certification and Training Rule Changes
Washington is updating pesticide licensing rules starting January 1, 2026, raising the minimum applicator age to 18, adding new license categories, requiring updated training or testing, and increasing supervision and recordkeeping standards. Most applicators must complete new C&T requirements within their recertification cycle.
Around the Industry
Leafroll Disease Now in Replacement Program
Resources for “Idling” Vineyards
WA State Wine Hires Commission Research Program Manager
The Washington State Wine Commission has hired Julie Tarara, Ph.D., as its new Research Program Manager. A longtime viticulture researcher and industry collaborator, she will lead V&E research efforts, manage grant programs, and share results with growers and wineries. She replaces Melissa Hansen, who is retiring after 10 years.
Reminder: Annual Wine Grape Report is Now Open
California Wine Institute Launches Resource to Help Wine Industry Connect with Consumers
The California Wine Institute has launched a new online resource to help wine professionals better understand and connect with the next generation of wine drinkers. Built on extensive consumer research, the platform offers tools, insights, and interactive learning to help wineries engage today’s consumers in authentic, relevant ways.
Washington State University Re-Design Initiative
WSU has launched a systemwide initiative to better align its campuses, Global Campus, and Extension offices to serve Washington communities. The WSU–Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Wine Science Center at WSU Tri-Cities is a key part of this effort. WSU is seeking public input through a short survey open until December 5.
Member Spotlight
Annual Meeting Brings Members Together Post-Harvest
Washington Winegrowers held its Annual Meeting of the Membership on November 11 at Kiona Vineyards and Winery in Benton City. The Board shared three strategic pillars for 2026—Collaboration & Partnership, Education, and Sustainable WA and confirmed the election of Justin Andrews, Director of Vineyard and Winery Operations at McKinley Springs.
Winegrowers Team Hits the Road to Connect with Members
Over the past month, Washington Winegrowers staff traveled throughout the Yakima and Prosser regions to meet with growers, hear their priorities, and learn about vineyard challenges and opportunities. Key feedback highlighted the need for timely, streamlined information on policy, education, and financial programs. The Association will continue these outreach visits next spring.