Moyer Honored By Washington Grape Industry

Congratulations to Washington State University’s Michelle Moyer, winner of the Water Clore Award.  Moyer was honored at last month’s Washington State Grape Society conference. 

This award is handed out annually to individuals who are actively involved in WSGS and have consistently provided service to their community and the state’s grape industry.  First handed out in 1977, other winners include Markus Keller, Tim Grow, Bill Lewis and the award’s namesake, Dr. Walter J. Clore.

“Being selected for the award completely caught me off guard, but it was a very nice surprise,” said Moyer, a viticulture professor and Extension specialist at WSU. “Past recipients have dedicated their whole careers to grapes.  They’ve helped the wine and grape industry through good and challenging times, and it’s exceptionally humbling to now be part of that.”

Moyer has served as an elected WSGS board member for more than a decade.  She also leads viticulture field days, which are run jointly between WSU and WSGS.

“Dr. Moyer has made a lasting impact through her leadership in organizing viticulture field days and shaping the WSGS Annual Meeting program — efforts that have significantly strengthened education and collaboration across the grape industry,” said WSGS Executive Director Kim Brunson. “Her commitment to the grape industry and service to her community are an embodiment of the Walter Clore Award.”

“Michelle is incredibly deserving of the Walter Clore Award,” said WSU Viticulture and Enology Department Chair Jean Dodson Peterson. “She has had a profound impact on Washington viticulture through her commitment to applied, industry-driven research and her genuine dedication to growers. Michelle has a rare ability to translate complex science into practical solutions, and she does so with humility, curiosity, and deep respect for the industry. She also cares deeply about mentoring students and early-career professionals, ensuring that the legacy of viticulture in Washington continues well into the future.” 

Moyer’s research includes studying ways to sustainably manage powdery mildew disease in the vineyard and investigating how rootstocks might combat soil-borne pests and diseases. Alongside partners at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, she and other researchers are currently wrapping up a long-term study that looks at how rootstocks influence grapevines’ nutrition uptake and whether rootstocks can help control northern root-knot nematode, a vineyard pest. 

“I’ll work even harder because I want to prove that I’m deserving of it,” Moyer said. “This award validates the work we’ve done, especially in Extension, and it helps reinforce that I have been successful. It also lights a fire and inspires me to ensure we continue to be useful to the communities we serve.”

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