Abstract
Barbara Hall attended the 7th International Workshop on Grapevine Downy and Powdery Mildew in Vitoria, Spain, 30th June – 4th July 2014, and presented a paper on current research into fungicide resistance. Overall, 2 invited lectures, 33 submitted papers and 20 submitted posters were presented, covering findings on epidemiology, resistance and breeding, forecasting, disease detection and management of the two diseases. An outline of the program is available at http://gdpm2014.com/scientific-program. Information has been presented at project meetings (SAR1204) and personally to colleagues. A joint article from all six Australian attendees will be submitted to an industry journal. Existing links were strengthened and new links established between Australian and international researchers.
Summary
Mrs Barbara Hall, Senior Research Scientist, Plant Health and Biosecurity, SARDI, attended the 7th International Workshop on Grapevine Downy and Powdery Mildew in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, 30th June – 4th July 2014.
This workshop, held every three to four years, draws together scientists from academia, research institutes and industry, providing a forum for exchange of new information on all aspects of powdery and downy mildews of grapevines.
Thirty three papers and 20 posters were presented at the workshop, covering the topics of epidemiology, plant –pathogen interactions, culture management and fungicide application, resistance and breeding, disease forecasting, disease detection and control. Two invited lectures provided information on viticulture in Chile and worldwide spray application processes. Participants also visited vineyards and wineries in Rioja Alavesa and Gipuzkoa, and the research institute Neiker-Technalia in Vitoria. The new knowledge will be utilised in the Wine Australia funded project on resistance management in viticulture.
The majority of papers were focused on disease management, particularly changing pesticide use patterns with decision support systems, resistance management, spray application and alternative product evaluation.
With the diminishing pool of research funding worldwide, it is critical that Australian researchers working with viticulture diseases strengthen and maintain links with international researchers. They should be encouraged to attend similar specific topic conferences to ensure that knowledge can be shared and new knowledge gained to benefit Australia. In addition convening similar conferences in Australia or the southern hemisphere will encourage more researchers from the local area to attend and strengthen international collaborative efforts.