Harvest 2025 Best Practices for Napa Valley Growers

​Harvest is the culmination of a year’s work in the vineyard, and it remains one of the most intense and rewarding times of the season. Success hinges on preparation, communication, and above all, safety. For 2025, the Napa Valley Grapegrowers encourages members to revisit core best practices and be mindful of recent regulatory updates to ensure that harvest runs smoothly and sustainably.

Pre-Harvest Planning and Communication

• Winery Coordination: Confirm harvest dates and delivery times well in advance. Establish who makes the “harvest call” and at what metrics (°Brix or other criteria).
• Delivery Logistics: Communicate bin or trailer types, load sizes, and vehicle limitations. Provide full contact information for both grower and winery reps.
• Neighbor Consideration: Minimize noise, dust, and light pollution, especially during night harvest. Share schedules with neighbors when possible to reduce disruptions

​Equipment Readiness

• ​Inspections: Ensure tractors, trailers, forklifts, and trucks are serviced, registered, and inspected before harvest. Pay special attention to brakes, tires, and lighting.
• Load Safety: Weigh bins when possible, secure all loads with proper tie-downs, and use tarps as needed for weather protection or compliance.
• Sanitation: Clean picking pans, containers, and vehicle interiors daily to protect fruit quality and food safety

​Worker Health and Safety

• ​Fatigue and Wellness: Encourage rest, hydration, and balanced meals, especially during consecutive night harvests. Provide water and individual drinking vessels in the field.
• Sanitation Access: Supply clean portable restrooms stocked with soap, water, and paper products.
• Training Records: Maintain documentation of crew training, including safe equipment use, picking criteria, and hazard awareness.

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