SPECIALTY CROPS
Water into wine Learn how irrigation systems have evolved to
support an industry dependent on precise results. By Luke Reynolds
intricate dance of soil, climate and craftsmanship that culminates in each glass.
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But among these elements, one factor plays a pivotal, often understated role: water.
“Based on the need, we can smooth out the natural cycles that otherwise would occur if we’re only dependent on rainfall, which varies a tremendous amount,” says Mark Battany, University of California Cooperative Extension water management and biometeorology advisor, San Luis Obispo/Santa Barbara Counties. “The irrigation tool allows us to gain better uniformity in production from one year to the next.”
Tracing back to traditional methods, Battany illustrates the shift to modern irrigation techniques, marking a significant transition in viticulture. Key to this transition has been the development of technologies that enhance irrigation efficiency and precision.
“One of the big advancements that occurred a while back was the pressure compensating emitters,” he says. “That really helped step up the precision in our application.” Other technology that represented a huge step forward included subsurface drip irrigation to try to prevent evaporation loss of water from the surface.
20 Irrigation TODAY | Winter 2024
sk any sommelier about the complexities of wine, and they’ll speak of a tapestry of flavors and aromas, each varietal bearing its unique signature. From the earthy undertones of a robust Cabernet Sauvignon to the delicate floral notes of a crisp Riesling, they unravel the
Precision irrigation systems are also revolutionizing vineyards, says Battany. Advances in drip and microirrigation, augmented by the Internet of Things and automation, optimize water usage. Sensor-based technology, alongside remote sensing and drone technologies, can also be deployed to manage large-scale vineyard irrigation and maximize returns.
“Especially in our coastal areas ... we never really did [use surface irrigation] because we don’t have surface water here. We use drip irrigation today in our vineyards and it’s a relatively inexpensive and easy way to apply water in a very precise manner,” says Battany.
If those systems are well-maintained, Battany is able to get very high distribution uniformity in the application of water throughout the field. It also provides an opportunity to apply nutrients directly to the plants through irrigation.
conservation
In the pursuit of sustainability within viticulture, Battany emphasizes that the industry is decidedly proactive, with growers diligently seeking to enhance their methods and tools. Their goal is clear: to optimize yield and quality while reducing the resources consumed. However, achieving this balance requires robust, data- driven benchmarks.
To this end, Battany’s study, titled “Paso Robles vineyard irrigation study provides benchmark data to assist future area groundwater management,” underscores the critical role of precise data in guiding irrigation practices, ultimately aiding groundwater
irrigationtoday.org
Photo: Darling Wines
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