Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/155925
ing blades open adjustably, based on finger pressure on the trigger, and can cut varied vine thicknesses with no additional strength required by the operator. These devices reduce repetitive motion injuries and allow workers to prune efficiently with less stress and fatigue than using manual pruning shears. Although electric pruners do not provide a direct cost savings, they can improve the work quality and output of less-skilled pruners. They provide longer-term benefits in terms of the quality of the work environment and potential savings on employee insurance costs. For vine tying, commonly done after pruning to attach pruned canes to trellis wires, WVM uses Pellenc models AP25 and Fixion electric vine-tying tools. Several twist-tie materials are available on spools that are loaded into the tool and fed through a hook on the end of the gun that dispenses, twists and cuts the vine tie. The Fixion can complete up to 30 ties per minute, or up to 12,000 per day, to save significant time over manual tying. DATA COLLECTION AND MANAGEMENT Administrative and field data are integrated through AgCode software that is built for mobile technology to collect data in the field. "We have 45 mobile workers using smartphones, who can capture viticultural information in the field, and this is combined with labor and activity-based information and synchronized to a cloud network and managed by AgCode," Merritt said. AgCode includes payroll, budget, billing, planning and scheduling operations. Field operations include mapping, field inspection, pest control, equipment tracking, contractor tracking, and harvest weight and yield data. control freak PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE New and replanted vineyards are designed for mechanization with no row spacing less than 5.5 feet, and drip lines no higher than 12-15 inches above ground level, to keep them clear of the fruiting zone for mechanical harvesting. "One of the biggest changes in vineyard and canopy design is to cane pruning, which better lends itself to mechanization," Merritt noted. WVM is evaluating Profil Alsace trellising systems in new and replanted blocks, manufactured in France and supplied by Central Valley Builders Supply. Profil Alsace metal stakes are sturdy and flexible enough to withstand mechanical operations and offer a wide range of wire-hanging points and crossarm options. WVM is involved in a vine-cooling research project in a Rutherford vineyard. The trial is testing the use of microsprinklers as misters LE TRIEUR™ MOG SEPARATOR Dramatically improve the quality of berries going to the fermenter. Easy to integrate, operate and clean. ■ Multiple models available ■ Options for different varietals ■ Remote on/off and speed control ■ Free run juice capture ■ Over 300 units currently in service U.S. Patent #7,581,646 H I G H - P E R F O R M A N C E C R U S H PA D E Q U I P M E N T www.pnlspecialties.com ■ p. 707 573 3141 1650 Almar Pkwy, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 62 V I N E YARD & WINERY MANAGEMENT | 04.19.13 Sept - Oct 2013 P&L Specialties Wines & Vines 3.5x4.875" 1/4-Page BW ■ ■ f. 707 573 3140 Lic. in CA/OR/WA A R M S T R O N G C R E AT E S w w w. v w m m e d i a . c o m