KENNEWICK, Wash. (AP) -- Washington wine grape growers are holding their annual meeting and trade show through Friday at the Three Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick.

Some growers told KNDO (http://is.gd/Dsqqzk ) they hope the mostly mild temperatures and decent snowpack this winter will help produce a full crop. Some vineyards were affected by too much rain last year and a cold snap the year before.

Washington State University President Elson Floyd spoke to the growers Wednesday. KVEW reports (http://is.gd/jegBL2 ) he said the wine industry is crucial to the state's economic recovery.

About 2,000 people are attending the four-day convention. It features nearly 160 exhibitors of the latest in wine making services, supplies and technology.

Copyright 2012 The AP.