On June 13, Sadie Drury and Nathanial Helligso updated the Washington State Wine Commission Board on the Sustainable WA program. The presentation highlighted progress in certification, improved processes, and communication.

 

On June 13, Sadie Drury of the Sustainable WA Governance Council and Nathanial Helligso, Winegrowers Sustainable WA Program Manager, presented an update on the Sustainable WA program to the Washington State Wine Commission Board. The response was overwhelmingly positive, marked by thoughtful questions, affirming dialogue, and a shared sense of excitement for the program’s future.

 

The presentation offered a comprehensive overview of Sustainable WA’s mission, certification process, and long-term vision.  Drury and Helligso highlighted 2025 as a year of stabilization and strategic refinement. Key updates included improvements to internal workflows, auditor consistency, and grower communications.

 

As Washington’s only statewide sustainability certification tailored specifically for winegrape growers, the program continues to gain traction across the industry. With over 14,000 certified acres expected in 2025—a 20% increase over last year—momentum is clearly building.

 

The Sustainable WA team thanks the Wine Commission for its continued support and partnership in advancing sustainable practices in Washington’s wine industry.