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The Nebraska Grape and Winery board was created in 2000 and consists of five members appointed by the Governor on a nonpartisan basis. All board members are (a) citizens of Nebraska, (b) at least 21 years of age, and (c) either engaged in or previously engaged in wine or grape production or research in this state. At least two board members are members of the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association. In addition, the Director of Agriculture and the vice chancellor of the University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, or their designees are ex officio members of the board but have no vote in board matters.
The purpose of the NGWB is to further the growth and economic development of the grape-growing and wine-making industry in the state of Nebraska to a maximum level as supported by the favorable soil and climatic conditions existing in Nebraska, and to satisfy the market demand for grapes and wine inside and outside of Nebraska. The end objective is to create an economically viable alternative farm crop and wine industry in Nebraska that will enhance the economic condition of the farm industry and the state of Nebraska.
The duties and responsibilities of the NGWB include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Establish a public forum whereby any producer of wine, grapes, or other wine-producing agricultural products has the opportunity, at least once annually, to discuss with the Board its policy and procedures;
- Keep minutes of its meetings and other books and records which will clearly reflect all of the acts and transactions of the Board, and to make these records available for examination upon request by members of the public;
- Authorize and approve the Department of Agriculture's expenditure of funds collected, pursuant to section 53-304;
- Serve as an advisory panel to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission in all matters pertaining to the wine industry; and
- Adopt and promulgate rules and regulations to carry out sections 53-301 to 53-305.
For administrative purposes, the board’s fund is located in the Department of Agriculture. All revenue credited to the fund are used by the department, at the direction of and in cooperation with the Board, to develop and maintain programs for the research and advancement of the growing, selling, marketing, and promotion of grapes, fruits, berries, honey, and other agricultural products and their byproducts grown and produced in Nebraska for use in the wine industry. Such expenditures may include, but are not limited to, all necessary funding for the employment of experts in the fields of viticulture and enology, as deemed necessary by the Board, and programs aimed at improving the promotion of all varieties of wines, grapes, fruits, berries, honey, and other agricultural products and their byproducts grown and produced in Nebraska for use in the wine industry.
The Nebraska Grape and Winery Board's mission statement is to work collaboratively towards a profitable, sustainable future that advances the interests of Nebraska's grape and wine industry through advocacy and education.