Epidemiological and diagnostic studies of grapevine trunk diseases to develop and implement effective disease management strategies

This study is working towards the long term goal of finding effective management strategies of the major grapevine trunk disease (GTD) pathogens found in British Columbia, as well as those that may be imported in nursery material. Epidemiological studies and implementation of DNA-based molecular diagnostic tools for a rapid and precise detection of all fungal species associated with GTD will facilitate the effective investigation of control strategies. The sustainability of the wine grape industry also requires the importation of healthy vines as part of a practical disease management strategy. Therefore, the development of a comprehensive disease control strategy will be investigated for both commercial vineyards and nurseries.