Last month, some of the world’s leading pest control and viticulture experts gathered in Sacramento to discuss the latest findings in the fight against Pierce’s disease (PD) and the glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS).

Attendees at the PD Research Symposium listen to one of the presentations.

Nearly 100 researchers, government officials and winegrape growers attended the 2013 Pierce’s Disease Research Symposium, organized by the California Department of Food & Agriculture’s PD Control Program. Attendees covered a broad array of issues during a packed two-day program. Topics ranged from simple tweaks involving traditional pest control methods to complex techniques utilizing novel ways to stop the disease. Special guest speakers also updated the group on successful policies and programs being tested statewide, as well as emerging threats overseas.

During poster sessions, researchers were able to show just how far their research has gone in recent years, and the many projects that are close to producing actionable, commercially-appealing control methods.

“We’re halfway down the field towards touchdown and the next step is critical. With a little bit of funding and hard work, we can turn our research into something practical. I’d usually say don’t look a gift horse in the mouth – but I’m sure looking,” said David Gilchrist, a professor of plant pathology at UC Davis who has demonstrated a new technique to protect vines from Pierce’s disease.

The symposium provides a rare forum for Pierce’s disease researchers to meet and exchange ideas, encouraging scientific collaboration and accelerating progress towards finding a solution to the disease. The 2013 Symposium Proceedings are available online and can be downloaded here. Printed copies are also available and can be requested from the Pierce’s Disease Control Program by calling 916-900-5024.