CNC Researching Soil Monitoring Technology For Vineyards
The College of New Caledonia is partnering with Vindication Cellars on a research project that will use soil moisture sensor technology to improve vineyard management in the Okanagan. CNC has received $25,000 in funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) for the project, which is running from April 15th to October 15th, 2016.
The project will rely on remote sensors to supply live data regarding soil moisture. Soil moisture and leaf water potential are the main quality indicators guiding ultra-premium wine producers. This information aids the winemaker with critical decisions regarding all cycles of plant growth throughout the season. By monitoring and controlling the amount of water available to the vines, growers can better concentrate flavors that are important to making ultra-premium wine suitable for ageing and collecting. This information will also help growers save time and water. Read more.