Director & Extension Program Leader

Dean cut his teeth on cold-climate viticulture in the far reaches of Wisconsin. During his tenure there, he established three replicated cultivar trials in three different USDA plant hardiness zones. In the far northern zone trial, the objective was to learn which cultivars would survive and produce grapes in extreme cold temperatures ranging from -45 to -50 °F. Further, Dean helped establish the Wisconsin Grape Growers Association and over his eight-year tenure in WI, its wine industry grew from 40 wineries to more than 120.  

Dean was first to confirm the presence of Grapevine Red Blotch virus (GRBV) in MO. His current research program is focused on applied and hypothesis-driven discovery of pests that have economic implications for Eastern U.S. grape growers. He led a statewide survey of grapevine viruses. Further research on GRBV is surveying potential insect vectors of the virus. His Extension program is multifaceted with attention focused on fungal and viral pests and their management. 

Dean is passionate about repatriating American grape cultivars lost to Prohibition. He focuses on cultivars with Vitis aestivalis genetic backgrounds with the goal of moving the grape industry to improved sustainability.