Several methods are being proposed to reduce the use of simazine and hopefully eliminate the source of contamination. One method of reducing simazine use is to educate growers in more effective and precise methods of chemical application. An intensive education program relating to best management guidelines can help reduce excessive application. The adoption of guidelines which minimize off-site movement and excessive downward movement of the chemical will also reduce contamination of groundwater. This approach may be effective in reducing use of the chemical and reducing groundwater contamination, but the long term approach recognizes that the chemical may not be available in the future.
Weeds can be a major problem in raisin vineyards, particularly sand burs and puncture vine.
Weeds such as nightshade, lambsquarters and telegraph weed can host nematodes and insects such as omnivorous leaf roller. Weeds compete with grapevines for light, water and nutrients and can severely impact vineyard production and quality. One of the focuses of the monthly grower meetings is weed control. Practices discussed and implemented in the grower meetings will be adopted by fellow growers, even if they do not attend the meetings if the practices can be demonstrated to be cost effective. Sun-Maid has contacted an economist and a sociologist to help study the usage and economics of integrated pest management practices.