Our New Models
The Temporal Ecology Lab is working to develop new phenological models specifically targeting vineyards. Our goal is to improve precision and develop models that can be applied to finer spatial scales.
As we begin this process, our goal is to gather as much phenological data as possible. The areas from which we are able to gather data will determine the success of our models and the areas to which they can best be applied. If your vineyard has phenological data (ideally 5+ years worth) that can be shared, please consider contributing. Details can be found below under “How to Get Involved”.
Modeling BC Viticulture
Our modeling development is funded by the B.C. Agriculture and Food Climate Action Initiative (CAI) as part of the Farm Adaptation Innovator Program (FAIP). The B.C. Agriculture & Food Climate Action Initiative develops tools and resources to enhance agriculture’s ability to adapt to climate change, and the FAIP seeks to build adaptive capacity and facilitate the adoption of effective farm practices with the goal of mitigating climate change related impacts.
Supported projects include those that:
–Promote innovation in farm practices, approaches and technologies that support climate change adaptation
–Demonstrate farm practices that reduce weather related production risks, and identify new production opportunities
–Develop informational and knowledge sharing resources and support increased sector capacity to support adaptation
How to Get Involved
In addition to phenological data, local climate data is an asset and simplified formatting (details below) will help to expedite the process, though are not necessary!
PHENOLOGICAL DATA (INCLUDING BRIX)
The most critical data are dates of the main phenological stages: budburst, flowering, veraison and sugar maturity. Ideally we hope for:
–Budburst: green tips stage (if another stage close to this we can use, just be clear in what stage you are reporting)
–50% flowering (we can use other percentages, just be clear in what stage you are reporting)
–50% veraison (we can use other percentages, just be clear in what stage you are reporting)
–Sugar maturity: The models benefit from all Brix measurements (multiple time points of the same block/variety are very helpful).
For budburst, flowering, and veraison, please indicate which percent of the buds and/or vines are at each stage (e.g., do you report 50% flowering when most vines are at that stage?). We do not require data on all events, though the more the better. That being said, if there is only data on one or a couple events (e.g., only budburst data) they are still useful. For each event we need to know (1) the date, (2) variety and (3) vineyard block. Our models allow us to use data from any variety (as long as we know which one it is), however, we are especially interested in data for: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chasselas, Grenache, Merlot, Mourvedre (Monastrell), Pinot Noir, Riesling, Syrah, Sauvignon blanc and Tempranillo.
CLIMATE DATA
The models work best given the most local climate data. Any data for relevant vineyards that can be accessed and shared is helpful. Ideal dates begin September 1st of the year before budburst and extend through the whole next season for each year with phenological data. The most critical measurement includes air temperature minima and maxima, other metrics that may be helpful include precipitation and humidity.
FORMAT OF DATA
We do not want data formatting to be a major hurdle for data sharing, so please contact us if there is an issue and we can figure it out. Our lab is able to re-format data, so our main priority is to receive the data in a way that can be interpreted. We can read most le formats or pull data from AdCon etc. if you provide us access. Please don’t hesitate to ask any questions about this.