Writer: Paul Schattenberg, 210-859-5752, paschattenberg@ag.tamu.edu
Contact: Jim Kamas, 830-990-4046, j-kamas@tamu.edu
LLANO — A Prospective Grape Grower Workshop will be from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 9 in Schorlemmer Hall of St. James Lutheran Church, 1401 Ford St. in Llano.
The educational program is designed to provide an overview of the unique requirements and economic risks associated with the establishment and operation of a commercial vineyard in Texas, said Jim Kamas, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist and fruit specialist based in Fredericksburg.
Registration will begin at 9 a.m. Online preregistration is available by going to http://agriliferegister.tamu.edu and entering the keyword “grape” for more details.
Kamas, who will provide instruction, said the workshop will address common concerns potential grape producers may have before committing valuable time and financial resources toward a commercial vineyard enterprise.
Topics will include necessary viticultural expertise, site selection, risk factors, skill and labor requirements, and vineyard enterprise economics.
“The program will help prospective growers decide if grape growing is a good fit for their farm and lifestyle, plus what they would need to do or consider for their vineyard to be commercially successful,” he said. “The workshop serves as an in-depth look at the realities of growing grapes in Texas.”
The fee is $150 per person or $200 per couple, including educational materials and lunch.
For more information, contact Kamas at 830-990-4046 or j-kamas@tamu.edu.
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