Department Resources

Safe Transfer of High-Proof Ethanol Using Pumps

Viticulture and Enology

High-proof (e.g. 70%) ethanol can be an effective sanitizing agent against the coronavirus causing COVID-19.  Spraying of small winery surfaces or equipment for sanitization with this solution is not problematic, especially in a well-ventilated area.  However, pumping high proof ethanol (for the purpose of creating sanitizing solution or sanitizing large pieces of equipment) using a normal winery pump could be hugely dangerous (explosion hazard) and should be avoided. 

Nathan Strong, chief executive officer and president at Terroir AI, a startup company, demonstrates an automated yield count unit at UC Davis Oakville Station.The Terroir AI unit is mounted on the back an ATV. Kerana Todorv/Wine Business Monthly

New System More Accurately Estimates Vineyard Crop Yields

Viticulture and Enology
A company is developing a computer vision system to estimate vineyard crop yield with the collaboration of UC Davis scientists. On Friday, Nathan Strong, president and chief executive officer at Terroir AI in Menlo Park, demonstrated the system at UC Davis’ Oakville Station. Strong installed a box containing four sensor cameras in the back of the station’s ATV, the cameras adjusted for the high-wire trellis system of the experimental block.
Mechanical Pruning of Young Grape Vine on Modified California Sprawl Trellis

Mechanical Vineyard Pruning Possible Without Replanting

Viticulture and Enology
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.

The Winery of the Future

Viticulture and Enology

While a few winemakers have consciously adopted a Luddite-like anti-technology position, most recognize that science and technology have led to better wines. Few places have done more to further the science of winemaking than the University of California, Davis, and its research and teaching winery and new sustainable research facilities are already perfecting many old processes as they test new ideas.

Travel Policy regarding Airfare Exceptions

BFTV Cluster
When booking airfare please note that the UCOP G-28 Travel Policy allows coach tickets. In order to have the university cover any business or first class airfare, it must meet one or more of the conditions noted in this message.

Fleet rental vehicles at North parking structure

BFTV Cluster
We just opened a remote rental car location at the North Entry parking structure under our UC Drive carshare program. I believe this location will be very convenient for CA&ES staff and offers hourly rates in addition to full or multiple day reservations.
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