Texas Pierce's Disease Research and Education Program Pierce's disease of grapevine, caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, is a deadly disease that has caused significant losses to vineyards in Texas and other southern states where the pathogen is endemic. The disease is the single greatest limiting factor for commercial grape production in some growing regions of Texas. Subsequent to the introduction of the glassy winged sharpshooter into California, Pierce's disease destroyed thousands of acres of grapes and threatens the entire California grape industry. The Pierce's disease problem in Texas is being addressed by a multidisciplinary interagency program that combines the research and Extension education expertise of numerous scientists. See a complete list of participating scientists on the team. Texas Pierce's Disease Program Review 2008 2008 Program Review Symposium Registration