NATURE’S GUARDIANS: HOW KESTRELS INCREASE SUSTAINABILITY AT BEL LAGO VINEYARDS
Nestled on the picturesque shore of Lake Leelanau, North Farm is the heart of Bel Lago, where the majority of our wines begin their journey. As stewards of the land, we are committed to sustainable and regenerative practices that honor our heritage and our future. Our dedication to environmental stewardship is underscored by our SIP (Sustainability in Practice) Certification, a testament to our holistic approach to viticulture. Among our most valuable allies in this endeavor are the American kestrels, the smallest and most colorful falcons in North America.
SIP Certification: A Commitment to Sustainability
Our SIP Certification is more than a badge of honor; it is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility. This certification requires rigorous adherence to sustainable practices that promote soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity. At North Farm, these practices include the use of innovative machinery to manage our grapevines and the strategic planting of cover crops to enhance soil fertility and attract beneficial insects.
The Vital Role of American Kestrels
In our quest to cultivate healthy vineyards, we have found an indispensable partner in the American kestrel. These vibrant raptors play a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of our vineyard, contributing significantly to our pest management strategy.
Kestrels are natural predators of rodents and small birds, which can be detrimental to our grapevines. By preying on these pests, kestrels help reduce the need for chemical pesticides, aligning perfectly with our sustainable and regenerative practices. Their presence ensures that our vines are protected from potential damage, promoting the growth of healthy, robust grapes.
Moreover, kestrels help manage the populations of insects that could otherwise harm our crops. Their diet includes grasshoppers, beetles, and other large insects, which can be particularly problematic during the growing season. By controlling these pest populations, kestrels help us maintain a thriving vineyard ecosystem that supports the production of high-quality grapes.
Enhancing Vineyard Health with Cover Crops and Machinery
Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond the introduction of beneficial predators. At North Farm, we utilize advanced machinery to manage our vineyards effectively. Machines that blow and trim grape leaves are employed to prevent rot and fungal growth, ensuring that our vines remain healthy and productive.
In addition to mechanical interventions, we plant cover crops between our vine rows. These cover crops are instrumental in building soil health and attracting beneficial insects. They help prevent soil erosion, improve soil structure, and enhance nutrient availability. The diversity of plants in our cover crops also provides habitat for insects that prey on vineyard pests, further reducing our reliance on chemical controls.
A Harmonious Ecosystem
The integration of American kestrels into our vineyard management plan exemplifies our dedication to creating a harmonious ecosystem at North Farm. By fostering biodiversity and employing sustainable practices, we ensure that our vineyards remain productive and resilient.
Our efforts at North Farm reflect the broader mission of Bel Lago: to produce exceptional wines while honoring the land that nurtures our vines. The presence of kestrels and our SIP Certification underscore our commitment to sustainability, ensuring that every bottle of Bel Lago wine is a testament to our dedication to quality and environmental stewardship.
As we continue to innovate and embrace sustainable practices, we invite you to join us in celebrating the natural beauty and bounty of Leelanau County. Each sip of our wine is a journey through our vineyards, a taste of our heritage, and a promise of our commitment to a sustainable future.