Center report looks at grape industry

Once upon a time, Iowa farmers grew grapes that were prized for their quality and shipped to neighboring states. Today those vineyards have almost disappeared, and most of the fresh grapes sold or processed in Iowa come from California and Chile.

A report prepared by Leopold Center education coordinator Rich Pirog shows that grapes could be a promising valued-added crop for Iowa farmers looking for specialty markets or agri-tourism opportunities. The report, issued in April, is making the rounds among local food system advocates, members of the Iowa Wine and Grape Advisory Council, and the newly formed Iowa Grape Growers Association.

The Center mailed 300 copies of the paper to people who have recently attended seminars for those interested in some aspect of a renewed grape industry in Iowa. Members of the advisory council also shared the paper with several legislators, and Pirog has provided information to a number of electronic and print media representatives.

Copies of the 30-page paper, "Grape Expectations: A food system perspective on redeveloping the Iowa grape industry," are available at the Center's web site, or may be requested by calling the Center at (515) 294-3711. The producers' new web site is at www.Iowagrapegrowers.com.