Issue link: http://winesandvines.uberflip.com/i/437909
January 2015 Wines&Vines 47 gRapegRowIng Swales or low spots can collect more water and contain more clay. Soil on slopes and ridges can be rocky and shallow—holding less water. "Instead of splitting these variable soils into hundreds of uniform mini-blocks," he says, "we manipulate the irrigation system to deal with changing conditions." Once he's determined demand, Decker can add an emitter so that the weaker vines receive 50% more water than the rest of the vineyard block. Or, he can place shut-off valves on drip lines that run through the vigorous sections of the block. Only the vines that need water will receive it. "The idea here is to make a highly variable vineyard uniform by the time harvest arrives," he says. Field capacity and permanent wilting point aside, Decker checks the forecast frequently for changes in weather. With weather stations lo- cated north and south of the winery, he can evaluate conditions at vineyards that are a short distance from one another, but miles apart cli- matically. "The evapotranspiration numbers can only account for what has already happened in the vineyard," he says. "If there is a heat spell or cool-down on the horizon, I will change the irrigation schedule to accommodate it. I do not want the vines to be over-stressed in hot weather or over-irrigated in cool weather. GEA Westfalia Separator directdrive Versatile, Effi cient and Compact 1836T engineering for a better world GEA Mechanical Equipment US, Inc. GEA Westfalia Separator Division Toll-Free: 800-722-6622 · 24-Hour Technical Help: 800-509-9299 www.gea.com Our newest concept in separation technology adapts to meet your toughest challenges. The new design, which features a completely integrated drive, provides the highest degree of effi ciency with signifi cant energy savings. Since the drive is installed underneath the bowl, there is less strain on the bearings for longer service intervals and overall simpler maintenance. Units require minimal fl oor space and are available in a range of capacities. To fi nd out how directdrive separators can provide the solution you have been searching for, contact Paul Battaglia at 201-784-4337 or Paul.Battaglia@gea.com or visit us online at www.wsus.com. "we irrigate red grapes at 30%-50% of the vine- yard's evapotranspiration rate, white grapes at 70%-75%." —Ryan Decker Ryan Decker, grower relations manager, Rodney Strong Wine Estates.