A decline in alcohol consumption among young adults in the United States is driving an unexpected increase in ferrous scrap flows in California’s wine country, as vineyards reduce planting acreage. Northern California vineyards are a steady source of scrap, with grapes grown on steel wires supported by 6-foot steel grape stakes, a portion of which are typically recycled after harvest.

However, falling wine demand has led growers to cut acreage, resulting in significantly higher volumes of grape stakes entering the scrap market. Metal recyclers estimate that 30% to 40% more grape stakes are being processed this year compared with previous seasons. Despite weaker scrap supply from other sources, grape stakes have provided a steady stream of material for recyclers.