More than 150 scientists from around the world will gather Dec. 12-14 at UC Davis to compare research findings and plot strategies for the control of Pierce's disease, an insect-transmitted bacterial disease that threatens California's $2.8 billion wine, table-grape and raisin industries. Pierce's disease is caused by Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterium that clogs a plant's vascular system, shutting down its ability to take in water and nutrients. Because there is no practical cure for Pierce's disease, most vines die within two years of being infected. The disease is transmitted by small flying insects known as sharpshooters. In the summer of 1999, Pierce's disease, carried by the glassy-winged sharpshooter, caused sudden dieback of more than 300 acres of vines in Southern California. It has since appeared in Central and Northern California, heightening concern that it might move into the premier wine-grape regions of Napa and Sonoma counties. "This conference brings together the premier researchers from around the world who are working on Pierce's disease and sharpshooters or related systems," says Michael Parrella, associate dean of agriculture for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. "They will review and analyze current research strategies and plot the best course of action to follow as the scientific community mobilizes to find a solution to this problem." During the first two days of the Pierce's disease conference, participants will meet in the Buehler Alumni and Visitors Center for detailed scientific discussions. From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14, a summary of the highlights of the meeting will be presented in a free public forum in Wright Hall, UC Davis' Main Theatre. More information about the conference is available at .