Economic Analysis of the Financial Impact of the Grape Leafroll Virus (GLRV) in the Finger Lakes Region of New York

Abstract

E.B. 2010-15Leafroll is one of the most important virus diseases of grapevines worldwide, reducing the yield and quality of grapes. The present study is aimed at quantifying the cost impact of the grape leafroll virus (GLRV) and identifying the best disease management options under several scenarios of reduced yield and quality. The costs associated with the absence of response to the GLRV ranged from $9,695 (for a 30$16,014 per acre (case of 50% reduction in yield and 10% penalty). This cost impact was lowered to a range of $547-$9,336 (for GLRV incidences 1- 27%) through roguing1 and $9,384 through vineyard replacement (GLRV incidences above 27$740. Roguing turned out to be the appropriate management method if the GLRV incidence is below 27%. Above that level, replacement was found to be the best option. However, there were two cases where ‘no intervention’ was the best management practice. The first is the case where yield reduction is less than 30%, GLRV incidences greater than 27% and no price penalty is enforced. The second is a situation of a vector transmitted infection happening beyond year 19. Beyond that age, roguing did not have a positive impact on the Net Present Value (NPV), suggesting no intervention in that case as well