In November 2024, USDA-ARS and the National Grape Research Alliance hosted a two-day workshop at Oregon State University. The event included federal scientists, university researchers and wine/winegrape industry members.  Attendees discussed the significant challenges and continuing threat of wildfire smoke on winegrapes and wine. The workshop covered the latest science on smoke exposure, industry needs and strategies for building smoke resilience. Dr. Arran Rumbaugh, USDA-ARS in Davis, Calif., developed a formal “roadmap” to summarize workshop outcomes and provide comprehensive information for stakeholders.

The roadmap – Following the Smoke Signals: Elucidating the Future of US Smoke Exposure Research – highlights five critical research priorities developed by attendees:

1. Establishing threshold levels
2. Rapid detection and risk assessment
3. Atmospheric modeling
4. Prevention strategies in the vineyard
5. Mitigation techniquest in the winery