Efficient water management is more important than ever for Napa Valley farmers. With agriculture accounting for a significant portion of water use in the Napa River Watershed, and with the region facing increasing uncertainty due to drought conditions, sustainable water practices are critical for protecting our local environment and ensuring the resilience of our agricultural community.
To support growers, Napa RCD offers a complimentary vineyard irrigation evaluation service, funded by the California Departments of Water Resources and Agriculture and the USDA. Since 2014, we’ve partnered with 140 farmers to optimize their irrigation systems, helping them distribute water more efficiently and effectively.
These evaluations focus on identifying and addressing critical issues that often go unnoticed:
- Emitter Clogging: Clogged emitters are often caused by poor water quality, inadequate filtration, or improper mixing of materials, resulting in uneven water distribution.
- Aging Emitters: Many vineyards in Napa rely on Netafim Woodpecker emitters, which have a lifespan of about 15 years. Beyond that point, these emitters often fail to deliver water accurately, even when there are no visible signs of malfunction.
- Improper Pressure Levels: Optimal water delivery requires emitters to operate within specific pressure ranges. Netafim Woodpecker emitters, for example, function best between 6 and 50 psi. Operating outside these parameters can lead to uneven water distribution, excessive wear, and reduced system efficiency.
These challenges underscore the importance of regular irrigation system maintenance and monitoring. Efficient irrigation systems ensure water is distributed uniformly, improving crop quality, minimizing waste, and reducing environmental impacts.
Each evaluation results in a custom report tailored to the vineyard’s specific needs. But we don’t stop there. Napa RCD works closely with growers to:
- Provide one-on-one technical assistance for implementing system improvements.
- Connect farmers with funding opportunities to upgrade their systems.
- Offer training sessions on monitoring and maintaining irrigation systems.
- Host hands-on workshops for vineyard managers, irrigation leads, and farmworkers.
Through these efforts, we empower farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to optimize water use, protect their crops, and safeguard the environment. This collaboration not only enhances agricultural productivity but also plays a vital role in preserving the ecosystems that make Napa Valley so unique.
Why Your Support Matters:
This essential work would not be possible without the support of our community. The Napa Valley Give!Guide is your opportunity to support meaningful change in Napa County. By giving to Napa RCD, you’re investing in local programs that safeguard our environment, educate future stewards, and strengthen the connection between people and the land.
The campaign is open from November 15 to December 31—every donation, no matter the size, makes a real impact. Visit the Napa Valley Give!Guide and take action today.
A Gift for Every Donation
The Monkey Flower Group will gift a small floral bouquet to every donor who makes a donation to Napa RCD through the Give!Guide. Donors who give $50 or more will receive five small flower arrangements.