As wine-growers in the Pacific Northwest we acknowledge that we are, in many ways, truly fortunate. Our vines are free of many of the pests and diseases that affect vineyards in other regions of the world. Therefore, our chemical usage is rather limited at present. Our purpose in crafting this program for vineyards is to maintain and enhance the advantages we currently enjoy.

The objectives and standards contained within the Checklists should not be seen as an endpoint, but rather as the beginning of an ongoing process. The vineyard and winery are dynamic entities, presenting us with fresh challenges requiring innovative solutions. New pests will require thoughtful responses, which preserve the integrity of our program objectives. Better solutions to old and chronic problems need to be encouraged. Clearly this program should be periodically reviewed and revised as necessary.

Finally, it must be emphasized that participation in this program should be entirely voluntary. LIVE has no interest in compelling anyone to be a part of this plan who is not committed to the program objectives outlined within the standards. Although vineyards and wineries will be visited periodically to monitor compliance, the commitment of the participants will be assumed and relied upon for this program to be successful.