New in 2009
Insects wanted? Since the original planting of Husch in the late 1960's, a wet patch of land has been unused for grapes. The traditional solution for this common problem is to engineer subsurface drains and dry the zone enough for grape production.
But we have a different idea. By planting native trees and insect-friendly shrubs we plan to create a small "insectory" in this area. A successful insectory helps maintain a healthy balance of insects in the vineyard. And though Husch has rarely had insect problems in the past, we think our insectory will provide a little insurance for the future.
next peek: Sheep in the vineyards
Sheep in the vineyards
Mowing weeds the old-fashioned way: Sheep are no strangers to the Husch property. In the early spring the sheep help keep the grass short and add a little organic matter back to the soils.
next peek: Owls in the vineyard
go back: New in 2009
Owls in the vineyard
Gophers are troublemakers They damage the roots of our grapevines. Their holes make a vineyard stroll precarious with the risk of a sprained ankle. And their burrows channel winter rains leading to erosion.
Our solution is to encourage local owls to patrol the vineyard and keep the gopher population under control. We installed four owl boxes in 2006 and the little mound of gopher bones beneath each box leaves us pleased to provide residences to these nocturnal predators. Bill Murray would be proud.
go back: Sheep in the vineyards
Sustainability
Sustainability at Husch is an ongoing process that began in the 1970's. At that time vineyard manager Al White became concerned with erosion on our hillsides and concluded that a no-till groundcover would solve the problem. That process of making improvements continues to this day.
Our four goals are: 1) reduce erosion, 2) conserve resources such as water and fuel, 3) protect the natural ecosystems that border our property, and 4) use organic chemicals.
Because these goals can be in conflict with each other we adapt our practices for each field. For example, erosion is a much bigger concern on our hillside fields. With fields closer to rivers and creeks we want to avoid chemicals - even those produced organically - that are potentially harmful to aquatic invertebrates.
As a result, we have a patchwork of practices. Some of our fields are organic. Almost all of our fields are certified "Fish Friendly." And we take pride that our farming practices, as a whole, require use a minimum of diesel fuel for each acre we farm.
Husch Vineyards
Winery & Tasting Room: 4400 Highway 128, Philo, CA 95466 1-800-55-HUSCH (1-800-554-8724)
Hours: we are open 7 days each week 10am - 6pm.
Mailing Address: PO Box 189 Talmage, CA 95481
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