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SACRAMENTO, June 6, 2025 - California winegrape growers are asked to have ballots postmarked by Thursday, June 12 on a referendum for extension of the Pierce’s Disease and Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter Assessment Program, through 2031.
The annual value-based assessment, set at $1.25 per $1,000 of grape-crop value for the previous three years of production, funds critical research and activities that reduce the impact of winegrape pests and diseases.
For an extension to occur, the referendum requires a majority vote in favor as well as a 40 percent voter participation rate. Through May 28 the participation rate was 30 percent. The last referendum passed with an overwhelming 78 percent vote in favor.
Every winegrape producer who paid the 2024 assessment received a ballot by-mail in April, while growers operating multiple entities received separate ballots for each.
Research funding focuses on preventing the spread of pests and diseases and delivering practical, sustainable solutions. Current projects address:
- disease management strategies
- genetic and biotechnological solutions
- vector and disease transmission
- virus detection and management
- industry preparedness
Since 2001, the program has funded 311 research grants, investing $44.1 million in Pierce’s disease and glassy-winged sharpshooter research, and $15.9 million in research for other pests and diseases.
More information about the program and research may be found here: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/pdcp/
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