ATU-Ozark captures wine study grant
by October 28, 2011 10:05 am 108 views
Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus has been awarded a grant from the Arkansas Agriculture Department to study the economic impact of grapes and wine in the state.
Totaling $24,300, the grant will allow for a study aimed at presenting facts regarding the significant return on investing in grapes in Arkansas, as well as eliciting support to improve the state’s grape-growing industry and increase its capacity to become a larger economic engine.
Arkansas Tech-Ozark Chancellor Jo Alice Blondin said, “This impact study fits perfectly with our mission to partner with our community, especially emerging industries, to ensure the employability of our graduates.”
Ken Warden, chief business and community outreach officer, said, “We appreciate Secretary (Richard) Bell and the Arkansas Agriculture Department for this opportunity.
“The study resulting from this grant will allow us to gain a better understanding of the economic landscape that surrounds grapes and wine in Arkansas. Further, it will enable Arkansas Tech-Ozark and others connected to this industry to better adapt to present and future considerations for this sector.”
As part of its commitment of supporting industry, increasing educational attainment and participating in the development of a trained workforce, in 2009 Arkansas Tech-Ozark began offering technical certificate programs in viticulture and enology.
Arkansas Tech-Ozark is a member of the Viticulture and Enology Science and Technology Alliance (VESTA), a National Science Foundation-funded partnership between the Missouri State University system, 17 two-year institutions across the country, state agriculture agencies, vineyards and wineries.
Although research shows the health benefits and nutritional value of grapes and moderate wine consumption, the full impact of grapes and wine within the state is unclear. With a growing market for grapes and wine in the United States, Arkansas’ vineyard regions have an opportunity to capitalize in grape production, retail sales and tourism.
Warden, who will oversee the project, said, “I don’t think anyone is fully aware of all the economic benefits that come from the presence of grapes and wine in our state. We look for this project to enhance our understanding.”
Arkansas Tech-Ozark will accept bids for the study beginning Dec. 1. Once the study is completed, it will be presented to the Arkansas Grape Board, VESTA and grape and wine conferences.
Of the total project cost, $20,000 will be spent on the study, $2,000 will be used to distribute in publications, $1,300 will be designated for travel, and $1,000 will be used to hold a conference for Arkansas grape- and wine-industry partners to collaborate and organize efforts to increase the industry’s potential and capacity for growth.