Seeking vineyard collaborators for biodiversity research in Michigan



Participating vineyards will have one or two of these sensors placed on their property from April through November.

Photo by Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar

Research opportunity will explore differences in biodiversity between organic and conventional vineyards


By Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar, MSU Extension
Sarah Grimes, Purdue University

Vineyard owners and managers in Michigan have a unique opportunity to participate in a pioneering research study exploring biodiversity in vineyard ecosystems. Purdue University, in partnership with Michigan State
University Extension, is leading an initiative to examine the differences in biodiversity between organic and conventional vineyards across West, Northwest, and Southwest Michigan.

This study will specifically focus on bird species, assessing their roles as both beneficial allies and potential pests in vineyard management. Birds play a complex role in vineyard landscapes. While some species contribute to natural pest control by feeding on harmful insects, others may pose challenges by consuming grapes or damaging crops.

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for sustainable vineyard management. To gather this information efficiently, researchers will use small, weatherproof acoustic sensors that record bird calls, allowing wildlife activity to be monitored without interfering with vineyard operations. Participating vineyards will have one or two of these sensors placed on their property from April through November. These autonomous devices require no maintenance from vineyard managers, yet they will provide valuable insights into the presence and behavior of different bird species. Participants will also gain access to the study’s findings, which could help refine vineyard management strategies based on scientific data.

The study is open to vineyards of at least two acres located in West, Northwest, or Southwest Michigan. Spaces are limited, so early sign-up is encouraged.

This research relies on passive acoustic monitoring, an advanced ecological method that uses autonomous recording units to capture bird vocalizations and analyze species presence, abundance and behavior. The technology offers a noninvasive way to study wildlife, reducing the need for direct human observation while collecting extensive data. Acoustic recordings will be analyzed using BirdNET, a cutting-edge deep-learning tool capable of
identifying thousands of bird species with high accuracy.

The results will help determine which birds are beneficial to vineyard health and which may require management strategies to mitigate potential crop damage.

Vineyard owners who take part in this study will not only benefit from valuable insights into their own ecosystems but also contribute to broader research supporting sustainable agriculture. Those interested in joining can sign up at this link. For more information or if you have any questions, please reach out to: Sarah E. Grimes at grimes43@purdue.edu

By participating, vineyard managers will play an essential role in advancing ecological research while gaining knowledge that may help them optimize their farming practices.

This is an opportunity to engage with innovative science and contribute to the sustainability of Michigan’s vineyards.