By Andi Anderson
Michigan State University (MSU) Extension, in partnership with Parallel 45 Vines & Wines, will host a special educational workshop focused on improving pesticide application practices and exploring advanced spraying technologies. The event, titled Spray Smarter: Pesticide Efficacy and Precision Sprayer Technologies, will take place on Aug. 6, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The free program will be offered in a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend either in person at the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center in Traverse City, Michigan, or virtually through Zoom. The workshop is designed to help agricultural professionals better understand how application methods and technology can influence pesticide performance.
The session will be led by Michael Reinke, MSU Extension viticulture specialist, and co-presented by Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar, MSU Extension viticulture educator. The presenters will discuss how factors beyond pesticide selection can affect crop protection results. Important considerations such as spray coverage, equipment setup, vineyard canopy structure, timing of application, and environmental conditions all play a role in achieving effective pest management.
Participants will gain practical insights into improving spray programs and increasing application efficiency. The workshop will cover several important topics, including factors that influence pesticide coverage and efficacy, advantages and challenges of precision and autonomous spraying systems, and the impact of vineyard row spacing and equipment access on spray operations.
The program will also address practical considerations for integrating new technologies into commercial farming operations. Growers will learn how advanced equipment can improve application consistency while helping optimize labor and operational efficiency.
A major attraction of the event will be live demonstrations of modern spraying equipment. Attendees will have the opportunity to observe a spray drone and an autonomous airblast sprayer in action. These demonstrations will provide valuable information about how emerging technologies can be used within Michigan vineyards and other specialty crop production systems.
The workshop is intended for a broad range of agricultural professionals, including grape growers, vineyard managers, pesticide applicators, crop consultants, tree fruit growers, and individuals interested in precision agriculture technologies.
Organizers have also requested three Michigan restricted use pesticide recertification credits, which are currently pending approval. These credits could provide an additional benefit for licensed pesticide applicators attending the program.
By combining classroom instruction with practical demonstrations, the workshop aims to help growers make informed decisions about pesticide application and precision spraying technologies. The event highlights the growing role of innovation in agriculture and offers participants valuable tools to improve crop protection, efficiency, and sustainability in modern farming operations.
For additional information about the workshop, interested individuals may contact Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar, MSU Extension viticulture educator.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension
Categories: Michigan, Sustainable Agriculture