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We are a MAEAP* Qualified Farmstead System. This certifies that our winery operates its farming operation to the highest environmental standards set by the State of Michigan. *MAEAP: Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program

• Eliminated the use of pre-emergent herbicides in all of our producing estate vineyards
• Transitioning a 20 acre vineyard to a complete organic standard
• Practice integrated pest management at all vineyard sites employing the practice of preventative measures to reduce or eliminate pesticide use
• Incorporated soil enriching cover crops and grasses between all vineyard rows to decrease erosion and increase beneficial insects and birds
• Established a “bird friendly” habitat encouraging numerous species to inhabit the property
• Erected over 35 houses to attract bird, bat, and predator species
• Documented over 45 bird species now living on the vineyard property
• Improved vineyard roadways and drainage waterways to prevent soil erosion around property
• Ongoing soil rebuilding program with use of compost, organic material and cover crops
• Built a spray containment building for washing down all vineyard equipment as well as the safe storage and mixing of any pesticides
• Installed safe fuel handling stations and proper storage facilities to protect groundwater
• We recycle all glass bottles and corrugated materials generated at our winery facility
• Installed environmentally friendly and efficient air conditioners, tank chillers, and furnaces throughout our facilities
• Clean and sanitize all winemaking equipment and production facilities by use of ozone, steam or environmentally safe methods
• Active in the “Adopt A Highway Program” since its inception

© 2007 Chateau Grand Traverse