Promoting an integrative landscape approach in vineyards for greater resilience in the face of climatic and environmental changes was the first Organic Science Cluster 4 research activity to be filmed for the Captured on Film: Organic Science in the Making documentary series. The film will be released later this month.
Dr. Liette Vasseur and her research team are testing a “landscape approach” at four organic vineyards in Ontario: Southbrook Vineyards, Tawse Family Vineyards, Redstone Winery and Promiscuo Wines Inc. By using native plant species in the vineyards and around perimeters, they hope to enhance ecosystem services to improve productivity and resilience. Biodiversification has been shown to benefit ecosystem services like climate regulation, pest control and soil health, while supporting crop health and productivity. Research on this ecological approach in vineyards could give grape growers a new management strategy to enhance long-term productivity while meeting the growing demand for wine products with a smaller environmental footprint.
I had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of being on-site for the filming of the first film in the Organic Science Cluster 4 (OSC4) documentary series at Southbrook Vineyards, tucked away in Ontario’s stunning Niagara region. The vineyard is known for its commitment to organic and biodynamic farming practices. With sweeping rows of grape vines, Southbrook’s vineyard is picturesque yet deeply functional—every row and trellis planned meticulously to maximize both grape health and soil biodiversity. It was clear in my initial impression that the site was designed with the Earth in mind.
I joined the crew, led by award-winning filmmaker Tamer Soliman from March Forth Creative Inc. and his team member, Alex Popescu, as they began capturing the story of Dr. Liette Vasseur’s innovative research on using native plant species in vineyards. Dr. Vasseur is among nearly 50 researchers united under OSC4 which includes 14 research activities spanning 10 universities and 13 research centres.
The Organic Council of Ontario (OCO) is a proud funding partner of three research activities within AAFC’s AgriScience Clusters program. Beyond viticulture, OCO is supporting the research of Dr. Robert Nurse and Dr. Jamie Larson, AAFC-Harrow Research and Development Centre working to increase Canadian dry bean yields while reducing pest pressure. The final of the three includes the research of Dr. Caroline Halde, Université Laval, and Dr. Marie-Noëlle Thivierge, AAFC-Quebec, looking at organic dairy pasture management and greenhouse gas mitigation potential.
The Captured on Film: Organic Science in the Making documentary series seeks to showcase the innovations of Canadian organic researchers and share the profound implications of their research with a wider audience. Work in previous Organic Science Clusters has demonstrated the importance of a multi-pronged approach to science communication by first building awareness, then interest, and then providing technical resources to support adoption. Short videos provide the audience with an opportunity to see the people and research and hear their passion and energy.
Who Was There?
Dr. Liette Vasseur, a respected researcher from Brock University, arrived mid-morning and was eager to describe the complexities of the research activity she is leading. Dr. Vasseur’s research explores “integrative landscape” approaches, where native plant species are intercropped with grapevines to boost biodiversity and resilience. She was accompanied by Len Van Hoffen, Southbrook’s vineyard manager, who brought to light practical insights into the vineyard’s organic practices. Van Hoffen offered a clear and captivating commentary on how Dr. Vasseur’s research plays out in the field. It was incredibly enlightening to learn about the day-to-day management of the vineyard and how science can be integrated within the operation.
On the production side, Tamer Soliman led the videography setup. He used a high-definition camera to capture smooth shots of the vineyards from various angles and capture the interviewees as they engaged in conversation. Alex Popescu managed the logistics, ensuring everyone was comfortable and that transitions between locations went smoothly despite our incredibly windy October day.
From our OCO team, our new Executive Director, Dr. Erica Shelley, was on-site to discuss the significance of organic research for other producers as well as the public while expressing her excitement for the future of the organic sector.
Overall, it was great to see a team of folks unite under the common goal of organics and the desire to share this research with the world.
On Camera
Most farmers are not used to being filmed talking about the merits of organic research. With his calm and personable approach, Tamer Soliman ensured that everyone felt at ease in front of the lens by taking time to introduce himself and the filming process and explaining how he would capture responses. Soliman asked open-ended questions, encouraging participants to “just have a conversation.” As a result, both Dr. Shelley and Len Van Hoffen opened up, sharing technical insights and their passion for organics.
Between shots, we had plenty of conversations that revealed the dedication of each participant. “Having worked on various agricultural projects, we’ve come to appreciate the importance of sustainable and organic practices,” shared Soliman, speaking on behalf of himself and his partner, Sarah Douglas. As producers of the film, it is essential they have a good appreciation for the science story being told. “We are honoured to have the opportunity to visit researchers, farmers, and funders, and present their complex research through visually engaging stories that everyone can understand.”
Dr. Vasseur mentioned how inspiring it was to see organic methods evolving in vineyards, which often face unique challenges due to high pest pressures. It is clear to me that each of these individuals hold organic to a high standard and recognize how this form of agriculture works with the planet, not against it. It was genuinely inspiring to be among a group that holds such a deep reverence for the Earth.
The Vineyard’s Set-Up and Wine Showroom
Southbrook’s vineyard layout offered plenty of space for us to explore. Rows of vines stretched over the entire landscape, punctuated by wildflower patches and native grasses planted to promote biodiversity. Some of the rows are carefully managed to support Dr. Vasseur’s project, with intercropped sections thriving alongside the grapevines.
The vineyard’s wine showroom, a beautifully designed building with large windows overlooking the fields, gave us a chance to capture the full production cycle—from field to bottle. Inside, the organic wine selection lined the shelves, with tasting tables arranged for visitors to sample the vineyard’s latest releases.
As Soliman filmed, I noticed how the questions flowed from technical details to broader reflections on the organic movement’s impact. Dr. Vasseur and Van Hoffen explained how native plants between the vines attract beneficial insects, reducing the need for external pest control.
A Glimpse into the Broader Vision
As the day wrapped up, we were all reminded of the purpose behind this documentary. The Organic Science Cluster 4 series is designed to raise awareness of the importance of organic research and encourage adoption of sustainable agriculture practices. This initial phase will introduce audiences to the researchers’ work, their challenges, and the innovative practices shaping organic farming. And when the videography team returns in 2027, they’ll capture the real-world impacts of these studies, bringing the narrative full circle to show how research translates to practical change.
As we left the vineyard, I couldn’t help but feel excited for the release of the first film. This documentary will not only amplify the voices of Canadian organic researchers but also emphasize the importance of supporting their work. With the Organic Science Cluster 4 research on native species intercropping in vineyards, there’s a real chance to reshape Canadian viticulture. And now, with the first film of the OSC4 documentary series, more people will have the opportunity to see this journey up close.
Published December 2, 2024
Organic Science Cluster 4 is an industry-led research and development endeavour co-managed by the Organic Federation of Canada and the Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada at Dalhousie University and supported by the AgriScience Program under Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership together with over 80 funding partners.
