Oct 22, 2024
Gallo adopts laser bird deterrent tech for vineyards

To improve sustainability, E & J Gallo Winery is implementing a laser bird deterrent technology in its vineyards.

Gallo, which markets itself as a leader in sustainable practices in viticulture, has taken another step toward innovation with the adoption of a bird deterrent system.

The Modesto, California, viticultural operation is using the AVIX Autonomic laser at its Talbott Vineyards in the Santa Lucia Highlands region in California’s San Joaquin Valley. The advanced approach to crop protection aligns with the company’s ambitious sustainability goals, as outlined in its 2024 sustainability report, according to a news release.

 

The challenge: Bird damage to vineyards
During the grape ripening period, known as “veraison,” birds are attracted by color changes in the bunches, causing significant crop damage. This problem is particularly acute at Gallo’s Talbott vineyard, where grape protection is key to ensuring quality production.

To address this challenge in a sustainable manner, Gallo implemented the AVIX Autonomic Bird Laser deterrent system, manufactured by Bird Control Group, which was purchased via Cypress AgriTech. The system uses a solar-powered green laser beam that travels continuously through the vineyard, scaring birds without causing any harm, beyond scaring them away as the birds perceive the beam as a predator, prompting them to leave the area, according to the release.

“Not only has the AVIX system proven to be effective in reducing crop damage, but in this case it also supports Gallo’s sustainability goals as a solar-powered device without any need for external power or negative impact on the environment, thus making Gallo’s sustainability plan a successful reality,” according to the release.

Avix Bird Control Group

 

Since implementing the system at Talbott Vineyards, Gallo has achieved a remarkable reduction in bird damage. Currently, 13 AVIX units are in operation, actively protecting the vineyard. Given its success, Gallo plans to expand this technology to other properties in the near future.

“This technological breakthrough is just one of many efforts Gallo has undertaken to reduce its environmental footprint, as highlighted in its 2024 Sustainability Impact Report. The company remains committed to innovation in sustainable viticulture, investing in practices that benefit both the ecosystem and the production of high-quality wines.”

“We are proud to be leading this journey toward agriculture that protects the environment while ensuring the quality of our products,” – Julie Wallace, Gallo’s sustainability program manager, said in the report.

Gallo winery

The laser bird deterrent system represents an excellent example of how technology can be integrated into Gallo’s farming operations in a responsible and sustainable way, according to the release.

Gallo grows grapes conventionally and organically.

Started in 1933, the Modesto, California, E & J Gallo Winery is a family-owned winery with 15 family members, spanning three generations working in the business. The privately held operation employs more than 7,000 people worldwide and grows, processes and markets a broad array of products that total more than 100 brands and include table, sparkling and luxury wines, beverage products, dessert wines and distilled spirits in more than 100 countries.

Based in Portland, Oregon, Bird Control Group provides solutions to keep birds at a distance from agricultural and commercial activities, ensuring safer working environments and effective damage prevention. The company’s clients include Cargill, Coca-Cola, Heineken, Google and operates in more than 100 countries worldwide with offices in the Netherlands.




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