After spending countless hours removing rocks and sticks, the site is ready for deep tillage. The ground is ripped open exposing boulders and roots for removal. This process also loosens the top two feet of soil to facilitate good root penetration for the vines that will be planted.
Another important step of site preparation is to insure proper drainage. As the winter rains saturate the soil, it can't always move through the soil structure at the same pace. Excess soil moisture finds paths of least resistance through soils that are more porous. These soils many times are surrounded by more tightly compacted soils. This forces the moisture to come bubbling to the surface, where there is danger it can carry precious soil and nutrients from the site. There are other places where layers of basalt create an impervious layer underground, causing the rainwater to find its way to the surface where if left unchecked, it would gouge deep ruts as it finds its way to the nearest waterway. Careful placement of underground tile help mitigate these water issues. It can take several years to accomplish the task of keeping surface runoff under control.
The soil is tested for ph and other nutrient levels so that soil amendment can be made prior to vineyard planting. The final soil grooming is done and the site is ready for vineyard layout.