The BC Decision Aid System is an online platform provided through a partnership between local project partners and Washington State University that delivers real-time, science-based decision support to growers. It integrates local weather data, crop and pest models, and timely alerts so producers can make faster, more confident management decisions.
WHY EXPAND TO WINE GRAPES?
Tree fruits have benefited from BC DAS for years. Wine grape producers face growing pressures: disease risk, extreme weather events, and labour/time constraints. This expansion will tailor proven models to grape cultivars and the diverse meso-climates of the Okanagan–Similkameen.
WHAT WE NEED FROM BETA TESTERS
We’re looking for a diverse cohort of growers, vineyard managers, and consultants to road-test the grape-specific tools during the 2025 season. As a beta tester, you will:
| Use the platform regularly to check model outputs and alerts. | Give structured feedback through very short micro-surveys (2 minutes) and an end-of-season questionnaire/interview. |
| Enter simple field data (e.g., phenology stages, observations, key weather events) for at least one cycle. | Flag issues quickly (e.g., confusing outputs, wrong data, missing cultivars) using the feedback process. |
TIME COMMITMENT
- Kickoff webinar (or recording): ~60 minutes.
- 6–8 short task cycles over the season: ~10 minutes each.
- Final survey/interview: 15–30 minutes.
Total estimated time: 3–4 hours spread across the season.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Early access to grape-specific decision tools before public launch.
- Input into features and priorities that matter to your operation.
- Recognition (optional) in the final project report.
WHO’S A GOOD FIT?
- Operate or advise on one or more vineyards in BC (ideally Okanagan–Similkameen sub-regions).
- Willing to share field data for validation purposes.
- Comfortable with basic web tools (or willing to try with light support).
- Interested in using models to refine spray timing, phenology tracking, or cold injury protection.
HOW TO APPLY
Complete the short screening form (2-3 minutes) – found here.
For questions, please contact: Galen Barnhardt, Barn to Bottle Consulting, galen@barntobottle.com
We’ll confirm selection and next steps by late September 2025.