Descubra El Desierto - Historical and Present Wine Grape Growing in southern New Mexico January 20, 2009

Bernd Maier is the first Viticulture Specialist hired by New Mexico State University’s Cooperative Extension Service. He received his Master of Science in Viticulture in Freiburg, Germany. As a commercial consultant, Maier has helped improve local vineyards for two decades. Current research for the New Mexico State University’s Extension Plant Sciences Department includes meteorological studies with respect to grape varieties for Northern and Southern New Mexico, and an emphasis on trellis system evaluation with respect to grape quality and mechanization. Maier will provide consulting services free to growers statewide and can answer questions on grapes and wine.