Project title
New smart irrigation system for monitoring and measuring water usage in wine grapes
Project number
SAGWRI CP 26-01
Project leader
Prof CA Poblete-Echeverria
Institution
South African Grape and Wine Research Institute, Stellenbosch University
Start date
2026
Project description / Aim and industry relevance
This project is co-funded with the WRC and focuses on improving water management in South African viticulture by developing a low-cost smart irrigation system. By integrating advanced ground-based sensors with artificial intelligence–driven data analytics, the system will provide accurate, real-time estimates of actual evapotranspiration (ETa), the most reliable indicator of vineyard water use. The approach addresses the limitations of existing irrigation tools and remote sensing methods by combining local, in-field measurements with intelligent modelling to deliver practical decision support tailored to vineyard conditions.
The primary aim is to develop, validate, and demonstrate a low-cost and scalable smart irrigation system that enables precise, data-driven irrigation scheduling in vineyards. By accurately quantifying ETa in real time, the project seeks to improve irrigation efficiency, optimise water use, and enhance grape yield and quality, particularly for small to medium-scale producers operating under water-limited conditions.
Water scarcity is a critical constraint for South African agriculture, and viticulture is especially sensitive to suboptimal irrigation. This project directly supports the wine industry’s strategic objective of improving water-use efficiency by providing a cost-effective, accessible precision irrigation tool. The outcomes will reduce water losses, improve vineyard sustainability and climate resilience, and strengthen the competitiveness of the wine sector. In addition, the project creates opportunities for digital agriculture services aligned with SA Wine’s flagship innovation initiatives, supporting broader adoption of innovative technologies across the industry.