006: Water Talk for Thriving Vineyards with Denny Hubbell of Rancher's Well Services

Wine World

What if your vineyard could thrive without a single drop of irrigation? In this episode, we’re joined by Denny Hubbell of Ranchers Well Services as we explore the critical role of water in viticulture, focusing on the idea between irrigating and dry farming. Learn the parameters needed for successful dry farming and the complexities of drilling wells, from site selection and drilling depths to associated costs. Gain insights into how water management can make or break a vineyard. We discuss the challenges of managing water resources across different regions of the United States.

Denny shares his journey from a rural upbringing to a career in the water well business, revealing the economic hurdles and personal aspirations that shaped his path. We delve into the technical and financial aspects of well drilling, emphasizing the importance of well logs, local expertise, and understanding aquifers, especially when purchasing land. In this episode, prospective vineyard owners will gain insight needed to make informed decisions.

We also discuss the impact of large-scale agricultural operations on local water tables and the nuances of water quality in well systems versus municipal systems. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the essential role of water in grape growing and winemaking, providing listeners with practical insights from industry experts.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Dry farming of wine grapes parameters
• Managing vineyards in varying climates
• Starting a well drilling business
• Water availability and quality in drilling
• Water drilling considerations in property purchase
• Unpredictability of drilling expenses
• Water cycle and aquifers, and maintaining well production capacities
• Water quality for vineyards and homes

Resources from this Episode

https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/our-story/

https://www.rancherswellservice.com

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Episode Credits

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