In the heart of Switzerland, where vineyards dot the landscape, a comprehensive survey has shed new light on the decisions that grape growers make regarding production, pest management, and labour. The dataset, published in *Data in Brief*, comprises responses from 489 grape growers and offers a nuanced look into the complexities of modern viticulture.
The survey, conducted in early spring 2025, delves into a wide array of topics, from grape variety selection and farm practices to the adoption of pesticide-reducing strategies. Philipp Höper, the lead author from the Agricultural Economics and Policy Group at ETH Zurich, highlights the innovative aspect of the data: “We captured the adoption stage of growers for four key pesticide-reducing practices, not just binary adoption. This gives us a more detailed picture of how and why growers are making these changes.”
One of the most compelling aspects of the dataset is its inclusion of behavioural factors, such as risk and time preferences, self-efficacy, and locus of control. These insights could be pivotal in understanding the human element behind agricultural decisions. As Höper notes, “By understanding these behavioural factors, we can better tailor policies and interventions to support growers in adopting sustainable practices.”
The data also links survey responses with environmental variables like temperature and rainfall, as well as spatial data on the infection risk of Oidium and Peronospora viticola. This integration of environmental data with grower decisions provides a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities facing Swiss viticulture.
For the agriculture sector, the commercial impacts of this research could be significant. By understanding the factors that influence the adoption of sustainable practices, stakeholders can develop targeted strategies to promote environmentally friendly methods. This could lead to reduced pesticide use, improved pest management, and more efficient labour practices, all of which can enhance the profitability and sustainability of grape growing operations.
The dataset also includes information on marketing approaches, labels and production systems, agri-environmental programs, and pesticide application equipment. This comprehensive view of farm-level data can help identify best practices and areas for improvement, ultimately benefiting the entire agricultural value chain.
As the agriculture sector continues to evolve, research like this will be crucial in shaping future developments. By providing a detailed and nuanced understanding of grower decisions, this dataset can inform policies, guide research, and support the adoption of sustainable practices. In a rapidly changing world, such insights are invaluable for ensuring the long-term viability of viticulture and other agricultural sectors.
Published in *Data in Brief*, the research was led by Philipp Höper from the Agricultural Economics and Policy Group at ETH Zurich, Switzerland. This work not only advances our understanding of current practices but also paves the way for innovative solutions that can drive the agriculture sector forward.