Fruit farmers and others interested in small fruit production, particularly grape production, are invited on a vineyard tour at Kirkwood Winery in Summersville hosted by West Virginia State University (WVSU) Extension Service Saturday, March 23. The educational tour is the first of a planned series of vineyard tours throughout the state intended to increase interest in local fruit production.
“We are providing an avenue for people interested in small fruit production to see firsthand the proper pruning methods for fruit trees and learn various aspects of wine making, as well as have direct access to industry professionals,” said Brad Cochran, WVSU extension associate for Agriculture & Natural Resources.
Winery staff will conduct the tour and provide information on fruit tree maintenance and other aspects of the winemaking industry.
The tour costs $40, which includes transportation and the tour. Participants will depart by bus from the WVSU campus at 8:15 a.m. and will stop for lunch prior to the tour. The bus will arrive back at campus at approximately 5 p.m. Local breads and spreads will be provided to participants during the drive. Lunch and any winery purchases are not covered in the attendance fee.
Registration is required, and attendance is limited to 40. To register, contact Brad Cochran at (304) 541-3301 or bcochran2@wvstateu.edu.
