Faces of Extension: Hans Walter-Peterson

I focused on plant biology during my undergrad studies, but I didn't really know what to do with that degree. So, I finished my studies and went on and started a career. Shortly after graduating, I got into wine, just as a hobby, learning about different grape varieties and why certain parts of the world were better suited for them than others. I really enjoyed learning about it and trying different varieties with friends.

Eventually, I reached a point in my career where I felt the need for a change. Initially, grad school didn't appeal to me because I wasn't sure what I would study. Then, it dawned on me: I love wine, and wine comes from grapes, which are plants. Could I study grapes? Turns out, I could.

My journey into the world of New York viticulture began during graduate school at the University of California, Davis. I initially thought I would work in California's wine industry, but a suggestion from a lab mate led me to explore an extension job in western New York. Meeting the team at the old vineyard lab in Fredonia, particularly Terry Bates, who is currently the director of the Cornell Lake Erie Research & Extension Laboratory, convinced me to take a chance on New York. Being closer to family in the Midwest and the affordability of housing in the area were added bonuses.

I was drawn to extension work because it allows me to have one foot in the production vineyard and the other in academia. I enjoy the blend of science and practical application, especially in viticulture, which integrates plant physiology, pathology, soils, and more. This role lets me stay connected to science without the pressures of tenure-track positions.

Working in viticulture in New York, with its diverse grape varieties (over 100 of them!), has been truly fascinating. I've learned how different grapes like Concord, Cayuga White and Riesling grow, tasted the wines made from them, and observed how field practices influence flavors. Although my wife and I once considered starting our own winery, we decided to enjoy the excellent wines produced by others in the Finger Lakes region.

Throughout my career, I've been influenced by mentors like Nick Dokoozlian from UC Davis and Terry Bates from the Fredonia lab (now the Cornell Lake Erie Research & Extension Laboratory). Nick encouraged me to consider extension work when it wasn’t even on my radar as a career option. He helped me see the value in bridging the space between academia and the practical application of research to real world issues in the vineyard. Terry's natural talent for research and communication taught me how to effectively design and conduct research projects. His ability to ask the right questions and communicate findings to growers really informed my approach to the work. Distilling research to meet the needs of growers, ensuring that research is both applicable and beneficial to their daily operations is fundamental to success in this role and both Nick and Terry were experts in that craft.

The other influence that has shaped my approach are the growers. In grad school, I learned about viticulture, but it was through extension work with growers that I truly learned about farming. They taught me how to integrate information from research into practical farming, balancing new practices with their existing routines, tight budgets, and busy schedules. I didn't grow up on a farm or in agriculture, so they have been incredibly patient and helpful, teaching me the realities of farming. They've been incredible.

I hope to be remembered as someone who was always there to help and advocate for growers. My goal has always been to use science to solve real-world problems and make a positive impact on the community.

One of my most memorable experiences was traveling to Japan to speak with grape growers in Hokkaido. The similarities and differences in viticulture practices were fascinating, and I was impressed by their innovative solutions to local challenges.

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, a hobby I picked up from my dad. I also sing in choirs, which helps me unwind and focus on something other than work. Recently, my wife and I adopted our first dog, a mellow pit-bull mix, adding a new dimension to our lives.