Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory

"Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Cornell’s grape research and extension programs in the Lake Erie region in 2009"

Cornell University scientists based in Geneva, Ithaca, and Fredonia, New York, conduct applied research aimed at increasing the profitability of Lake Erie region grape growers while maintaining sustainable practices in the vineyard. Research-based information is then provided to the grape industry through the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program, a joint effort of Cornell University and Penn State University.

Our technical support staff works with faculty researchers to study a broad range of topics to optimize grape productivity and quality, with the ultimate goal of maximizing the profitability of the growers and industries in the region. The laboratory is currently engaged in the following research and extension:

Vineyard mechanization
Improving wine grape production in acid soils
Developing yield and brix monitors for mechanical harvesters to improve vineyard management decision-making
Evaluating grape germ plasm for disease resistance
Rootstock breeding
Evaluating and improving vineyard soil health
Variety improvement through clonal selection
Crop load effects on root growth and physiology
Evaluating pesticide application equipment
Biology, control, and long-term effects of insects and diseases on vineyard productivity
Evaluating the efficacy of insect, disease, and weed control methods