2022 WSU/WSGS Viticulture Field Day

This in-person, outdoor educational event will feature a series of educational rotations, with 30 minute stops at four themed stations.  On-site check in begins at 8:00 AM  and the event will be done by 11:00 AM.

Station 1 – Assessing Coverage and Drone Spraying Learn about state-of-art on UAV based spraying, including the types of platforms available, what nozzles they use, and their flight speed/altitude attributes (along with swath width). Learn about pertinent FAA and state regulations on drone spraying. This station will include a demonstration with a DJI Agras T20 drone, and attendees can see what the spray coverage looks like in a full-canopy vineyard.  Presented by Lav Khot, Washington State University.

Station 2 – Non-residue spraying – Ozone, Oil and UVC Come and see these alternative pest management technologies in action!  This station will demonstrate machines that apply ozonated water, heated horticultural oil, and UVC light. It will present information on the logistics of the machines and their efficacy for disease management in vineyards. Presented by Lexie McDaniel and Jake Schrader,  Washington State University.

Station 3 – Smart Spraying  & Solid Set Canopy Sprayers Different ways to apply pesticides, through the “Intelligent Sprayer” and Solid Set Canopy Delivery System  will be explained, including how they work and how they can be used to improve spray application. Both systems will be demonstrated in-field so participants can see the differences in how they function, including a visualization on total products that are used, and what their spray coverage is with these two application approaches. results will be discussed. Presented by Ramesh Kumar and Datta Bhalekar, Washington State University.

Station 4 – Commercial Rate Controllers VineTech and AgOtter will present information on their sprayer rate controllers, and how they can be used to assist in more accurate pesticide application and monitoring of product use in vineyards for smarter pest management. Presented by Grant DeVries (VineTech), and Dave Nerpel (AgOtter).

HOST ORGANIZATIONS This event is co-hosted by the Washington State Grape Society and Washington State University Viticulture Extension.