Project title
The application of remote sensing technology in terroir studies

Project leader
Strever, A E

Institution
University of Stellenbosch

Project description
This project was launched to supply processed digital multispectral imagery of a selection of plots from project WW 13/12, with the main aim being the selection of experimental plots best representing the natural terroir units studied. Moreover, two additional plots of higher and lower vigour respectively were also selected at each site to study links between vine and grape characteristics under these differing conditions.
Results obtained and research questions generated from this project led to the initiation of two other projects in Jan 2006 (WW-AS1 and WW-AS2) focussing on the yield x ripeness x vigour interactions as well as vine vigour x water status interactions.
The major benefits reached to date in this project include:
1. Ensuring the optimal placement of the three experimental sites selected within study blocks of project WW13/12.
2. Monitoring grapevine reaction to variable soil conditions.
3. Minimisation of statistical variance through optimal placement of experimental sites and improved knowledge on within-plot variability (between the three ?medium? vigour plots).
4. Generating spatial data that can be used in future to use remote sensing images for improved vineyard management, with a specific focus on pruning practices, canopy management and water stress management practices (combined results from three mentioned projects).
5. Highlighting to industry the inadequacy of basing decisions of vineyard management on limited point data or observations in vineyards.

Presentation(s)
1. Strever, A E. 2002. A study of with-in variability using remote sensing and conventional measurement techniques. 26th National Congress of the South African Society for Enology and Viticulture, 13-15 November, Somerset West. South Africa.
2. Strever, A E. 2003. Current South African research on remote sensing in viticulture at the University of Stellenbosch. Precision Viticulture Workshop, January, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
3. Strever, A E. 2003. Multispectral vineyard vigour variability assessment for targeted optimum ripeness determination. 27th National Congress of the South African Society for Enology and Viticulture, 5-7 November, Somerset West. South Africa.

Strever, A E. 2003. How to manage vineyards precisely. WineLand. Mnth Aug p. 92-95

Article

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