CORRALITOS – The European grapevine moth hasn't turned up in Santa Cruz County yet, but vineyards here are being monitored for the latest global traveler to pose a threat to California agriculture.
The moth, which feeds on the flowers and fruit of grapevines, was first detected in the state in 2009 in Napa County. Since then, quarantines have been established in seven California counties, including nearby Monterey.
"I try not to worry about too many things – there's a long list of things you can worry about, but that said I sure hope it doesn't come to this area," said winemaker Richard Alfaro, who grows his grapes on 38 acres on Hames Road. "It can create a lot of damage. It's definitely not good for the grape."
The moth's larvae causes the problem, chomping on fruit and exposing the grapes to rot and fungus, according to state agriculture officials.
John Bargetto of Bargetto Winery and Vineyards called it "a serious threat" but he too said it's one of many concerns, ticking off the list: Dealing with regulations, labor, weather, changing market demands, even wildfires, he said, recalling the 2008 Summit Fire that sent smoke billowing over his vineyard – thankfully high enough that the grapes were not affected.
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