US: Labor Tight for Vineyard Operations
US: Labor Tight for Vineyard Operations
Jun 12, 2012 6
(Wines&Vines) - Vineyard managers across California have had to scrounge for labor this spring, and many are concerned the scarcity of workers will last through harvest. Jim Young, co-owner of Robert Young Estate Winery in the Alexander Valley, said a contractor who usually can help the winery thin shoots on 150 acres only had the staff to work 75 acres. The winery has 317 acres of vineyards. Young said he had to bring in tractor drivers, gardeners and anyone else he could find to finish the work. He said he’s not too far behind schedule, but he’s worried about having sufficient labor through harvest. “I don’t expect it’s going to be any easier,” he said.
Comments