022: Modern Tools for Crop Estimation with Dr. Terry Bates

Vineyard Underground

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Terry Bates, the director of Cornell's Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory, to explore the importance of crop estimation for successful vineyard management. We discuss the basics of crop estimation, including understanding the expected yield, ripening of the current crop, and how to prepare for the yield. We also talk about the optimal phenology timing for crop estimation and crop adjustment.

Listen in as we explore the power of proximal sensing and how it can help with effective and accurate crop estimation. We examine how proximal sensing differs from other forms of sensing, such as satellite imagery, and how it can benefit growers of all sizes. Dr. Bates takes us through the different ways of doing crop estimation, from traditional methods to the latest technologies. We also discuss how vine health and crop estimation can be measured with proximal sensing and how this technology can be customized to suit both large and small growers.

Don't miss out on this insightful discussion about modern tools for crop estimation.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Why accurate crop estimation is essential for successful vineyard management
• What the optimal phenology timing is for crop estimation and crop adjustment
• How proximal sensing is being used to advance crop estimation, measure vine health, and more

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If you found the information from this episode helpful, we’ve made our Crop Estimation Guide – Member-Only content available for podcast listeners until Sept 1st, 2023: https://mailchi.mp/3153961421f9/crop-estimation-guide

Episode Resources:

Come grow with Fritz through VirtualViticultureAcademy.com, and 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, use the Ask Fritz button at VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com.

Crop Estimation Resources – Fritz Westover

• Late Season Cluster Thinning to Improve Crop Uniformity Video: https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/grower-guides/late-season-cluster-thinning-to-improve-crop-uniformity/
• Mid-Season Vineyard Strategies Video: https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/grower-guides/mid-season-vineyard-strategies/
• View the full Grower Guide Library: https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/grower-guides/

Resources – Dr. Terry Bates

• Efficient Vineyard Project - MyEVTool: https://www.efficientvineyard.com/
• Using Bloom NDVI to Improve Concord Crop Estimation Video: https://www.efficientvineyard.com/blog/using-bloom-ndvi-to-improve-concord-crop-estimation
• Summary of the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory and the Efficient Vineyard Project Theme Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arzlh7T9zlk

Today’s Guest:

Dr. Terry Bates is the Director of Cornell Lake Erie Research & Extension. His areas of interest include viticulture, digital agriculture, and concord (juice grape) production.

Connect with Terry – EfficientVineyard.com

Episode Credits:

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