Date of Award

Fall 12-2024

Degree Type

Honors Thesis

Major

International Studies

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

International Studies

First Advisor

Brain Dowd-Uribe

Abstract

The shift to sustainable agriculture in Napa Valley necessitates certified organic vineyards among wine industry stakeholders to facilitate systemic change. Nonetheless, numerous impediments—such as fiscal constraints, inadequate access to information, and agricultural education—are intended to address these barriers for fostering an environmental stewardship program focused on innovation and sustainability. The methods employed to investigate the transition to organic vineyards include qualitative and quantitative approaches, such as interviews with vintners and data analysis of annual crop yields and the economic impact of certified organic vineyards in Napa Valley. The investigation reveals that vineyard proprietors face significant early challenges, including a steep learning curve related to novel pest management techniques and the requirement for increased effort to maintain organic standards. The three primary themes of agricultural challenges underscore the imperative for effective pest and weed management devoid of synthetic inputs and the importance of soil health and biodiversity in organic practices. Secondly, economic barriers highlight the rising costs associated with organic viticulture, the lengthy certification process, and the ongoing difficulty of attaining financial sustainability without robust economic incentives for organic wines. The social intricacies of the difficulties of modifying ingrained patterns among vineyard workers, the imperative for ongoing training and retention, and the psychological resistance to adopting new methodologies. Finally, the changeover successfully navigated these challenges, integrating multiple vineyards demonstrating lasting benefits, such as enhanced soil health, increased biodiversity, and growing consumer demand for organic products.

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