Jowler Creek Winery in northern Platte County is planning to unveil their new electric vehicle charging stations and a self-guided eco-tour to celebrate their first decade of sustainable wine production. As the first green winery in Missouri, Jowler has planned the activities for Earth Day on April 22. 

Winery owners Jason and Colleen Gerke’s first efforts to incorporate green practices into Jowler came about when Colleen suggested using “mini-sheep” to graze under the grape vines to control weeds and reduce erosion.

“One of our goals in celebrating Earth Day and opening our self-guided eco-tour is to show that going green has increasingly gone mainstream,” said Colleen. “There are so many tools and techniques that we can use in production agriculture that benefit both productivity and the environment.”

The 16-stop eco-tour will showcase the green production practices Jowler Creek green uses, including green technology and use of bats and goats. Guests will also get close-up views of the working vineyard and winery.

Guests will also have the opportunity to ride in Jowler Creek’s 100 percent electric, zero-emissions Nissan LEAF, or in one of the two new Tesla vehicles that Tesla Motors will have on hand at the event.

Drivers of electric or hybrid cars will receive two complimentary wine tastings and be entered to win a gift basket.

The winery will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on April 22.