Issue link: http://winesandvines.uberflip.com/i/235941
grapegrowing release management program. Some growers have installed wind machines so that they don't have to frost protect with water when less severe freezes are predicted (minimum temperatures > 28° F). In both watersheds, growers are planning vineyards that will grow well with less water. More vigorous rootstocks, later budding varieties, planting in more upland places and regulated deficit irrigation are all strategies being used to conserve water by avoiding frost and minimizing the need to use irrigation for frost control. California is reaching a point where practical limits on water use are becoming essential. All users of this precious resource are going to have to show that they are using it efficiently and for a good purpose. We con- ducted our studies of agricultural water use in the Russian River and Navarro River watersheds to help our community have a better sense of how this public trust resource is being used by growers as an important economic engine in our county. Winegrowers need to be proactive rather than reactive if they want to continue irrigation and frost protection. Winegrowers need to be proactive rather than reactive if they want to continue irrigation and frost protection when there are so many other stakeholders interested in conserving this precious resource. Water is essential to life and communities in our state, and it will continue to be an important issue to all in the years to come. tom lid en Parts of the Anderson Valley are in the Navarro Watershed. Glenn McGourty is the UC Cooperative Extension winegrowing and plant science advisor for Lake and Mendocino counties. He also tends a 1-acre vineyard of the aromatic Italian winegrape variety Arneis 12/13/07 12:34 PM Agfast_WireVise_Jan08 on his property along the Russian River near Ukiah, Calif. WIREVISE® Trellis & Fence Wire Anchor Embossed jaws grip the wire as it is inserted and prevent it from being pulled out. The wire is retensionable with a pair of pliers or a claw hammer. WIRELINK® Tool-free Trellis & Fence Wire Splicer Broken or sheared ends of a wire are slipped into either end of the WireLink to make a secure splice. Requires no tools. Both WireVise and WireLink are available for wire from 9-13 gauge. For your nearest dealer, contact: Toll-Free: 877.552-4828 909.451.2299 • Fax: 909.593-8309 50 W in es & V i ne s January 20 14