041: Mastering Irrigation Distribution Uniformity with Dr. Franklin Gaudi

Vineyard Underground

Is your vineyard irrigated? If so, then this episode is for you! Dr. Franklin Gaudi, executive vice president of design for Laurel Ag & Water, is on the show to discuss the often-overlooked topic of irrigation distribution uniformity (DU). Distribution uniformity measures how evenly water gets applied to the field, and it’s a topic that’s not taken as seriously as it should be.

DU can make or break your vineyard when some vines get too much water, and others get none at all. In this episode, we discuss why DU is important and provide information so you can start with an irrigation system right for your vineyard. Listen in now!

In this episode, you will hear:

• Why irrigation distribution matters and why growers need to be on top of it.

• Identifying common issues affecting distribution uniformity, such as pressure variations and clogged emitters, and their impact on vine health.

• How to conduct distribution uniformity tests and maintain irrigation system efficiency.

• The balance between emitters and system pressure.

• The role of pressure regulation and investing in quality equipment for long-term vineyard success.

• Actionable solutions and resources for grape growers to optimize water distribution and enhance crop productivity.

Resources:

Access free Irrigation Evaluation resources from Cal Poly, including spreadsheets for six types of irrigation systems.

Come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout.

If you have questions about today’s episode or other grape growing questions, go to VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com and click the Ask Fritz button.

Today’s Guest:

Dr. Franklin Gaudi is the executive vice president of design for Laurel Ag & Water in California with a focus on redefining the industry standard for irrigation design. Prior to his current role, Franklin was an assistant professor and project manager for the Irrigation Training and Research Center at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.

Connect with Dr. Franklin Gaudi:

• Website: https://laurel-ag.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurelagandwater

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurelagandwater

• Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurel-ag

Episode Sponsor:

Thank you to Shellt Grow Tubes for sponsoring today’s episode. Shellt makes the ultimate grow tubes for grape vines and orchard trees. Their grow tubes are reusable, recyclable, and designed to grow with your vineyard by clicking together for taller or wider coverage. I exclusively recommend Shellt Grow Tubes to the growers I work with. Visit https://www.shellt.us/ and order with the code UNDERGROUND15 to save 15% off all online orders plus free shipping within the continental United States.

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.