Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/72473
VINEYARD ECOLOGY Hero photos by John Curley A This waterfall oxygenates reclaimed winery waste water for use in vineyard irrigation. visit to Parducci Winery is inspirational. Houston native Tim Thornhill's past experi- ences have led him to redesign a water- wasting, biologically ineffi cient property into a natural place. His water reclamation project has conserved water and saved money: Five million gallons are recycled annually. His waterfalls are both esthetically pleasing while also serving to oxygenate reclaimed winery waste water. His man-made wetland is an ecosystem that mimics the Everglades, using plants as a "green fi lter," con- structively cleaning water for use in the vineyards as well as for Parducci's certifi ed wildlife habitat. 88 / the tasting panel / july 2012 Habitat The wetlands at Parducci Vineyards—designed by co-owner Tim Thornhill—act as a natural fi lter that trap pollutants and reduce fl ooding and soil erosion.