April 2019

Mechanical Vineyard Pruning Possible Without Replanting

One of the major concerns regarding mechanical vineyard pruning is the time and cost associated with replanting a vineyard in a manner that would accommodate the process. However, a report from University of California Cooperative Extension researchers that was published in HortTechnology demonstrates that replanting is not necessary. Research conducted in Madera County found that growers can mechanize their operations by retraining vines without suffering any fruit loss or decline in quality.

Trends in Vineyard Irrigation: A Who's Who in Vineyard Water Management Honors Larry Williams

Viticulture and Enology

Larry Williams has remained busy since he retired last July from UC Davis after 36 years in the Department of Viticulture and Enology. Last Thursday was no different. Williams was honored at an all-day seminar on vineyard irrigation and vine water management at UC Davis. Williams invited the speakers, including former graduate students and colleagues. Williams prepared two presentations of his own, including one with 141 slides on the highlights in vineyard irrigation over the past 36 years.

UC Davis College Bowl team update

Food Science and Technology

The UC Davis College Bowl team recently traveled to Brigham Young University in Salt Lake City, Utah, to compete in the 2019 IFTSA Pacific Northwest Area College Bowl competition. The team consisted of Katie Uhl (graduate student and team captain), Kay Senn (graduate student), Madison Dosh (undergraduate student), and Andres Gonzalez (undergraduate student). The event brought together teams from UC Davis, Oregon State University, Utah State University, Washington State University/University of Idaho, and the hosting school, Brigham Young University.

Winegrape vineyards can be converted for machine pruning without replanting

Viticulture and Enology

Wine grape growers in the San Joaquin Valley who want to switch from hand pruning to mechanical pruning won't have to replant their vineyards to accommodate machinery, according to a new study published in HortTechnology by University of California Cooperative Extension researchers. Instead, growers can retrain the vines to make the transition, without losing fruit yield or quality.

Dr. Ned Spang wins NACADA Region 9 Award

Food Science and Technology

UC Davis was recognized with seven of twelve regional honors by NACADA, the global community for academic advising at the NACADA Region 9 Awards, and FST's own Assistant Professor Ned Spang was one of the honorees. NACADA's website states, "Region 9 is proud to support student success by providing opportunities for recognition and professional development opportunities for students, academic advisors and administration."