Certification Standards

Certification is based on maintaining a minimum score in the VineBalance workbook. This workbook is designed to provide grape growers in New York and other regions of the Northeast with guidance in evaluating and adopting best management practices that minimize environmental impacts, reduce economic risks, and protect worker health and safety. Standards in the workbook are set by a panel of experts including academics, industry members, and extension specialists focusing on practices relevant to New York grape production. Annually, these standards undergo review and revision to ensure they are up to date with science based best practices and economic feasibility. Currently the workbook features nine objectives.  

1. To promote the use of practices that reduce reliance on off-farm inputs. 
2. To build, regenerate, and conserve healthy soils for future generations. 
3. To protect surrounding reservoirs and waterways from pollution. 
4. To improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 
5. To conserve natural resources, reduce waste streams, and recycle. 
6. To encourage healthy ecosystems, biodiversity, and wildlife habitat. 
7. To increase climate resiliency and promote climate-smart farming. 
8. To provide education and pathways for continuous improvement. 
9. To foster a socially equitable and economically viable industry.