FELCO continues its long-standing commitment to vineyard pruning competitions and farmworker education programs across major U.S. grape-growing regions.

SEATTLE, WA / ACCESS Newswire / January 21, 2026 / For more than 80 years, FELCO has supported the skilled professionals who shape the world's most respected vineyards. Through its long-standing support of vineyard pruning competitions and farmworker education programs, FELCO continues to champion the precision, craftsmanship, and the people behind world-class viticulture.

"FELCO's red handles have been a trusted symbol in the hands of farmworkers. Pruning competitions recognize skill, judgment, and care for the vine. Values that define both great viticulture and the people who make it possible. Supporting this work is not a campaign for us; it's part of who we are." - Ryan Amberg, General Manager, FELCO North America

An 80-Year Commitment to Farmworkers and Pruning Competitions

Pruning competitions recognize technical expertise, promote safe pruning practices, and elevate the essential role vineyard workers play in the grape industry. Participants are evaluated on clean and proper cuts, thoroughness, and techniques that support both current and future years' growth. In some competitions, contestants present pruned vines to judges and explain their decisions using proper terminology and reasoning, which is also factored into scoring.

"The art of pruning is where dedication meets talent, transforming vines into bountiful treasures," said Diana Silva, Director of Communications for the California Farmworker Foundation. "Celebrating the hands that nurture and the skill that shapes, we honor those who turn labor into legacy, crowning pruning champions of the Central Valley."

Pruning Competitions FELCO Supports and Participates In

FELCO proudly supports and participates in pruning competitions and educational events across major grape-growing regions, including:

California Farmworker Foundation Pruning Competition
Date: January 16, 2026 (2027 dates TBD)
Contact: diana.melero@californiafarmworkers.org

Napa County Pruning Contest
Date: February 4, 2026
Contact: info@farmworkerfroundation.org

Alexander Valley Winegrowers Regional Pruning Contest
Date: February 18, 2026
Contact: info@alexandervalley.org

Sonoma County Pruning Competition
Date: February 26, 2026
Contact: socopruningchampionships@gmail.com

New York State Pruning Contest
Date: March 13, 2027 (Date Pending)
Contact: USA@felco.com

Sonoma County Youth Pruning Contest and Viticulture Challenge
Date: January 10, 2026 (2027 dates TBD)
Contact: brookeparsons55@gmail.com

California FFA Youth Pruning Contest
Date: February 7, 2026
Contact: swilliamshopper@cde.ca.gov

Central Coast Pruning Contest*

*Participation varies by year and region as FELCO continues to expand support for professional and educational pruning initiatives across the United States. Pruning competitions not listed are encouraged to contact FELCO North America, to be added to FELCO's listing of events.

About FELCO

FELCO is a world-renowned Swiss manufacturer of precision pruning and cutting tools, trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike for more than 80 years. Founded in 1945 by Félix Flisch, FELCO's mission is to make a difference by providing tools whose performance inspires confidence and whose design reflects a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and ergonomic excellence. Every FELCO tool is engineered for durability and field serviceability, with fully replaceable parts that extend tool life and reduce environmental impact. Driven by a perpetual quest for quality and respect for nature, FELCO continues to uphold its founder's values of craftsmanship, reliability, and responsible manufacturing while serving professionals across viticulture, arboriculture, landscaping, and beyond.

Media Contacts

Lydia Shedden
Marketing Manager, FELCO North America
Phone: 206-258-2901
Email: lshedden@felco.com

Diana Silva
Communications Director, California Farmworker Foundation
Phone: 661-709-1528
Email: diana.melero@californiafarmworkers.org

SOURCE: FELCO North America