Dr. Terry Bates, director of the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory (CLEREL) and senior research associate at Cornell University, will be the first recipient of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture’s (ASEV) Extension Distinction Award. This honor recognizes a current extension educator for outstanding contribution to an extension program or the advanced translation of novel research findings into commercially applicable tools for enologists or viticulturists. Dr. Bates, who has also served as president of ASEV’s Eastern Section chapter, will receive the 2014 Extension Distinction Award following his presentation, “Concord Fruit Thinning: Using Vine Biology and Mechanized Management to Address Market Demands in New York,” on June 25, 2014, at the 65th ASEV National Conference in Austin, Texas.

Dr. Bates is a leader in the field of vineyard mechanization and is widely recognized for his work on Concord grapes in the Lake Erie region. Based on his research trials, growers now have a new, proven tool – mechanical crop estimation and thinning – to adjust cropping levels to seasonal conditions. Additionally, Dr. Bates directs CLEREL, which since opening in 2009 has provided a revolutionary model for integrating research and extension for the industry. His ongoing research efforts involve educating the industry on economic impacts, demonstrating how the tool can work in commercial vineyards and sharing his findings through field meetings, annual conventions and newsletter articles.

Dr. Bates has authored or co-authored over 20 technical articles in various trade and extension publications. His collaborations have had a nationwide impact as well as a direct economic impact on the Lake Erie region and its grape producers. In 2008, the New York Wine and Grape Foundation recognized him for his contributions to research and education.

 “Terry exemplifies the Society’s vision for the Extension Distinction Award,” said Lyndie Boulton, ASEV executive director. “His significant contributions in viticulture have made an indelible impact on the industry. We believe his work will serve as foundation for other extension research endeavors.”

Dr. Bates will be presenting at the 2014 ASEV National Conference in June. Check out asev.org for more information about the week-long event featuring: the latest research in enology and viticulture; practical and industry seminars showcasing products in commercial winemaking and grapegrowing; two full-day symposia focused on water use and winemaking for challenging environments, and a Texas regional wine reception. To register for the conference, click here.