Almond Journey

Transportation-Logistics UpdateThe Almond Alliance, along with other agricultural export leaders, has met with significant ocean carriers such as CMA/CGM, OOCL, MAERSK, the Ports of LA, LB, and Oakland, and railroads - UP & BNSF, to find immediate solutions to current industry shipping logjams. Using ABC data, the Almond Alliance was able to show that there is the demand to warrant alternatives to shipping out of the Port of Oakland. As a result of these meetings, the Alliance was able to bring the parties together to offer a viable alternative. The new route would have shippers directly book with the ocean carrier OOCL for drop-off at the Oakland ramp. The product would be railed directly to LA/LB for final loading and shipment to various Asian markets (currently, service to India is not being offered). Concurrently, an additional rail service from the Central Valley directly to LA/LB is under development. More information on that rail service will be provided as details become available. Additional information will be released by the Almond Alliance. Visit their website here to stay up to date. Additionally, the gridlock surrounding the Ocean Shipping Reform Act in Congress is expected to be resolved in the next few weeks. The House is planning on taking up the version of the Bill passed by the Senate earlier this year. While this version does not include as strong of provisions that bar carriers from “unreasonably” declining export bookings, it includes stronger provisions related to reining in detention and demurrage fees.MRL Conference Highlights More Challenges for AgIndustry members attending the annual Minor Crops MRL Conference discussed challenges related to import tolerances, risk assessments and sustainable ag production. Increasing efforts to define “sustainable” food chains and acceptable processes and production methods will impact not only producers but also ag trade. It was highlighted that consumers generally do not appreciate the importance of chemical tools in mitigating food loss in the field resulting from insect pressures, drought, etc. – which impacts developing countries.Concern was expressed over the need for expedited approvals and reviews for chemical tools, to reduce the burden on industry and agency reviews. It was pointed out that about 14% of global noncompliance would “go away” if science-based Codex MRLs were followed. A presenter from Mexico raised awareness that there is a number of shifts in how pesticides are to be regulated within Mexico. Those shifts include a ban on imports of glyphosate thus precluding its use by Mexican growers, along with efforts to increase organic production and reduce pesticide use within Mexico. To date, it’s not clear if these changes will impact MRLs and thus imports, but if the outlined changes take effect, then Mexican growers will likely push for import MRL changes.Pakistan Bans Imports of AlmondsOn May 19, Pakistan announced a formal import ban on various products, including agricultural products, in an effort to lower its trade deficit and preserve foreign currency reserves. Imports of nearly all products under Chapter 08, including almonds and all other nuts, are banned. In 2021, the U.S. exported 2,714 MT of shelled almonds and 1,698 MT of in-shell almonds to Pakistan.More information can be found in a recent USDA GAIN report. ABC staff are following up with USDA/FAS offices in Pakistan and USTR.

Winter in Germany slows everything down — but it also opened the door to a creative opportunity for California Almonds. In this month’s Marketing Bulletin, hear how the Almond Board of California leaned into movement, sustainability, and natural energy to bring almonds to life in unexpected ways. From city streets to digital platforms to the moment of purchase, this campaign shows how a simple idea can keep consumers moving, even in the coldest months.

Almond Board of California (ABC) President and CEO Clarice Turner joins the Journey to discuss the state of the almond industry. She discusses the current economic realities in the almond industry, and the Almond Board’s continued focus on growing overall demand, maintaining a favorable trade environment and maximizing grower value.“Our total acreage in California has come down in the last four years. We just finished an analysis on global supply… and that supply is coming down over the next five years by about a hundred million pounds. So, it looks like we're reaching equilibrium with supply.”- Clarice TurnerIn Today’s episode: Hear from Almond Board of California President and CEO Clarice TurnerExplore the current state of the Almond industry and what the Almond Board of California has in the works for the futureLearn more about future trade expectations and expanding opportunitiesDiscover new and innovative products to be developed from almond productionThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.

Chuck Fleck joined the Journey to discusses the latest in almond genetics and variety development. Fleck is the director of horticulture research at Sierra Gold Nurseries. During this conversation, he shares his journey into breeding almonds and almond rootstocks, what’s driving his breeding program and what excites him about the future of almond genetics. Fleck also discusses a project with Ohalo using gene editing technology to create a self-fertile nonpareil almond tree. “Nonpareil is the industry standard, but what if other items can come along and create a new industry standard, giving growers more options and not just different versions of the same old options they've got.” - Chuck Fleck In Today’s episode:Meet Chuck Fleck, the director of horticulture research at Sierra Gold NurseriesDiscover the process of evaluating different rootstocks and the amount of time it takes to produce resultsExplore the advancements being made to create a self-fertile nonpareil almond tree Check out the Almond Variety Considerations Page as a resource for picking the best variety for your operation and register for the Regional Variety Trial Field Days coming up in April and May. The Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.

Joseph Jackson grew up in his family’s farming operation in the Visalia area. Upon deciding to downsize the family farming operation, Jackson took on an off-farm job as a Customer Success Director for Phytech. Jackson shares his perspective as someone who has implemented technology as a farmer, and someone who helps other farmers utilize technology.“As ag tech in general, we have made some amazing products, but these products need to be more affordable. They need to be more accessible. This is a stage where you have to be able to show real value.” - Joseph JacksonIn Today’s episode:Meet Joseph Jackson who serves as both a farmer and Customer Success Director for California with PhytechDiscover Jackson’s thought processes for analyzing and utilizing farm technologyLearn about Joseph’s experience with the Almond Leadership Program and his involvement with the Strategic Ag Innovation CommitteeThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.

Nav Athwal joined the Journey to share his perspective on growing a farming business amid tough economic conditions. Athwal is the president of Tri-Nut Farms and president and managing member of Terra Ag Ventures. After growing up on the family farm, he became a real estate and land use attorney and then a technology entrepreneur. Seven years ago, he returned to the family farm to help with operations and growth. In today’s episode, Athwal discusses how he’s navigating the economic headwinds almonds are currently facing, why he remains focused on the long-term outlook, and what he calls intelligent growth. “There were two goals I had. One is, how do we bring more operational excellence, both at the field level, but also in the back office? And how do we grow intelligently to take advantage of economies of scale?” - Nav Athwal In Today’s episode:Meet Nav Athwal, president of Tri-Nut Farms and president and managing member of Terra Ag VenturesDiscover Athwal’s journey starting on the family farm, navigating outside of agriculture and then returningExplore Athwal’s smart growth philosophy and how they educate and include investors in their operationsThe Almond Journey Podcast is made possible the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices. 

Alicia Rockwell, vice chair of the Almond Board of California and chief government affairs officer at Blue Diamond Growers, joined the Journey to share her perspective on stewardship and advocacy for the almond industry. Rockwell discusses lessons from her work at Blue Diamond and Save Mart Supermarkets, the critical role California Almond Stewardship Program (CASP) self-assessments have played in reputation management, how almonds are leading the way in terms of stewardship, and the importance of engagement and advocacy on behalf of the industry.“The reason that this industry was able to protect its reputation and get out from under the water criticisms was because of those growers that in those early stages, went and did the CASP self-assessment.” - Alicia Rockwell In Today’s episode:Meet Alicia Rockwell, vice chair of the Almond Board of California Board of Directors and the Chief Government Affairs Officer at Blue Diamond GrowersExplore Rockwell’s journey from the urban bay area to becoming an advocate for both producers and consumers alikeDiscover the thoughtful approach the almond industry has taken and continues to utilize to stay current with consumer trends and policy changeThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.  

In this episode of the Almond Journey Podcast, we return to The Almond Conference 2023 where we sat down with Almond Board of California Director of Nutrition Research Elena Hemler. Hemler joined the Almond Board over a year ago to work with the Nutrition Research Committee to lead efforts in expanding the body of knowledge about the health properties of almonds. She came to the industry from an academic nutrition research background and previously worked at the Harvard School of Public Health. The ongoing nutrition research that the industry is funding has been a major tailwind in growing global demand for almonds. Hemler shares the latest almond nutrition findings supporting exercise recovery, gut health, weight loss, heart health* and beyond. “We have built a body of research that totals over 200 peer reviewed publications on almonds nutrition and health benefits. This is more than any other food that I know of. All of this research has really contributed to changing perceptions among consumers.”  - Elena HemlerIn Today’s episode:Meet Almond Board of California Director of Nutrition Research Elena HemlerDiscover the journey towards researching and verifying the many health benefits almonds can offer to consumersReview Hemler’s full 2023 Almond Board Conference presentation and catch up on anything you might have missedLearn more about the Nutrition Research Committee at the Almond Board by visiting their webpageThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices. * Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Michael Kelley, President and CEO of Central California Almond Growers Association joined the Journey to share the challenges with the 2023 crop, especially the major problems with navel orangeworm damage. We also discuss other factors that led to it being such a difficult year and what producers can watch out for in the future. Kelley first appeared on this podcast on episode 42.“(NOW damage) has certainly made a dent into the carryover. Hopefully it gets the stocks-to-use ratio to a level that'll be conducive for the price of almonds to move up.” - Michael KelleyIn Today’s episode:Hear from Michael Kelley, President and CEO of Central California Almond Growers AssociationExplore the impact of navel orangeworms in 2023 and the many factors that contributed to that impactLearn about better communication and education efforts with growers to facilitate more effective pest managementRead more about navel orangeworm management by visiting this Almond Board of California webpageThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices. 

At The Almond Conference 2023, Almond Board of Australia CEO Tim Jackson, and Senior Specialist of Pest Management at the Almond Board of California Lauren Fann joined the Journey. Jackson shared some of the similarities and differences between almond production in California and Australia and discussed the new pest to California almonds, Carpophilus truncatus which Australian producers have been battling for about a decade. Fann discusses the discovery of Carpophilus in California orchards, what we know about the pest and what the industry is doing to try to get ahead of it.“From our point of view, a healthier Californian industry with a good price is a direct benefit to our industry. So we are certainly all ears about helping where we can.” - Tim JacksonIn Today’s episode:Meet Almond Board of Australia CEO Tim Jackson and Senior Specialist of Pest Management at the Almond Board of California Lauren FannDiscover the similarities and differences between American and Australian almond production and the different obstacles their producers experienceExplore the research and efforts being made to manage the recent Carpophilus exposure in CaliforniaThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.  

In this episode, we are joined by Clarice Turner, president and CEO of the Almond Board of California. Turner shares about her listening tour with multiple stops throughout the state to hear from growers and to better understand their needs. She also discusses her previous experiences from farming to working for corporations like Pepsi and Starbucks. Finally, you’ll hear some of her ideas and areas of focus now that she has officially taken over for Richard Waycott.“I'm a collaborator. I like to ask a lot of questions and I pride myself in being a good listener, especially when I'm the representative of a collective body. You have to really understand what everyone's needs are.” - Clarice TurnerIn Today’s episode:Meet Clarice Turner, president and CEO of the Almond BoardDiscover her professional background and the many benefits she brings to the roll of president and CEOExplore the future Turner sees in the almond industry, how driving demand is “job number one” and the efforts she will encourage to make that happenThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.

This episode is taken from nine different interviews conducted during The Almond Conference last month. People from around the industry were asked to share what’s on top of their minds headed into 2024. You’ll hear highlights from Alicia Rockwell, Bret Sill, Nav Athwal, Joe Palomino, Christine Gemperle, Julie Adams, Ambassador Doug McKalip, Michael Kelly, Brent Holtz, and Joseph Jackson.“I really would like to see pricing get stabilized as we come into this next year and do all that we can to continue to market. Our industry has been typically one of the best at marketing our product, and part of that reason is because it's so versatile.” - Alicia RockwellIn today’s episode:Highlight the hopes for the new year from around the industryAppreciate nine different perspectives of almond leadersDiscover new technology, new avenues for marketing and new hope for almond prices going forwardThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.  

In this episode, we celebrate the last twenty years of the Almond Board of California under the leadership of Richard Waycott. Waycott joined the Almond Board as President and CEO in 2002. He joined the Journey to reflect on the past couple of decades in almonds and share his hopes for where the industry goes in the future. We discussed the evolution of the almond industry, milestones and lessons learned along the way, and the transition over to incoming CEO Clarice Turner. “I've thoroughly enjoyed the industry. I've enjoyed this position. I've enjoyed all the challenges that I've had, both personally and professionally. It's been a great ride as they say.” - Richard WaycottIn Today’s episode: Join Richard Waycott as he reflects on his decades of experience as the Almond Board of California president and CEOExplore the progress and growth the almond industry has achieved over the last twenty yearsThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.

Almond grower Jonnalee Dunn joins the Journey from Arbuckle, California. Dunn is the growth and development manager at Henderson Farms, which is a 52-person company that farms around 5,000 acres in Northern California. Dunn and her husband also own 120 acres of their own. In today’s episode, Dunn discusses why Henderson Farms prioritizes employee growth and development and how they carry out their company's core values every day.“Our huller was significantly impacted by the freeze (in 2022), and that affects everybody. But we can still come to work trying new innovative ways of doing things. We can still come to work valuing each other.” - Jonnalee DunnIn Today’s episode:Meet almond grower Jonnalee Dunn and explore the Henderson Farms' operationDiscover the beginning of Henderson Farms and how it has expanded and grown over the yearsExplore Henderson Farms’ core values and how they continue to focus on themThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.   

Almond grower and Almond Board of California Director Christine Gemperle discusses how she finds balance between conventional farming approaches and ecological processes. She also shares her early experiences with whole orchard recycling, new irrigation systems, cover crops and habitat for pollinators, including monarch butterflies.Gemperle and her brother Erich started their almond operation in 1997, which includes 135 acres on two farms: one near Ceres and the other in the Newman area. The brother-sister partners are second generation central valley farmers.“I don't know that people understand how much food security is dependent on California agriculture. It's so important globally that we be able to continue to farm.” - Christine GemperleIn Today’s episode:Meet Christine Gemperle of Gemperle OrchardsDiscover how Gemperle has incorporated practices such as whole orchard recycling, cover crops and pollinator habitat into her operationUnderstand how new approaches and new irrigation technologies are making California farms more efficient and resilientThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.

Raj Samran is chief operating officer of Hilltop Ranch, Inc. Taj Samran serves as vice president and handles grower relations for the company while also serving as CEO of Samran & Sons Farming. The Samrans share how their family got their start in growing almonds and how that led to also becoming hullers and processors. They also share what keeps them striving for growth despite challenging economic conditions. “We really like it when an employee says, our company, or like this is our forklift. Because then it shows they care and that means they're happy working here.” - Raj Samran In Today’s episode:Meet Raj and Taj Samran who own and operate Hilltop Ranch, Inc. and Samran & Sons FarmingDiscover how the Samran family got their start in almonds in California and how this led to becoming hullers and processors within the industryExplore their business approach and how they make sure their employees are taken care ofThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.

Dick Cunningham has a long history in the almond business as a grower and huller/sheller. Cunningham remains an active member of the Almond Alliance Board of Directors where he serves as chair of their political action committee. In this episode, Cunningham shares his journey, the ups and downs he has experienced over the years, the current challenges facing growers in 2023, and his outlook for the future. “Farming is nothing but ups and downs. Just when you think things are good, things change, just like right now. Almonds have always been good to me and I think they'll be good in the future, but there's a lot of things to work on.” - Dick Cunningham In Today’s episode:Dick Cunningham shares lessons and insights from over 50 years of working in the almond industryDiscover Cunningham’s journey and history within the almond industry and what he has learned throughout that processExplore the impact Cunningham feels regulation has had on almond trade relations and regulationsThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.  

Grower Dan Clendenin producer almonds in both Merced and Madera as part of a family partnership with his siblings. Growing up, the family grew fresh market vegetables, and they eventually planted almonds in the late 1970s. Clendenin shares his personal almond journey, his hands-on approach to orchard management and some of the innovative practices he has adopted over the years. “Being outside is great, watching the blooms is great, watching it leaf when spring comes and new life. But as I said before, the best part is still when that check comes because you can't do the rest of it without the check.” - Dan Clendenin In Today’s episode:Meet almond grower Dan Clendenin who farms in both Merced and MaderaExplore Clendenin’s personal journey into farming almondsDiscover Clendenin’s approach to financial and time management as well as new innovations he is using in his operationThe Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry. ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.   

Bikram Hundal is the vice president of operations for Custom Almonds and Sequoia Nut Company. Hundal shares how technology is changing the game in almond processing with optical sorters, artificial intelligence, robotics and other advancements. This technology allows for potential opportunities for data to be shared between growers, hullers and processors to capture more value for everyone involved. An engineer by training, Hundal previously held positions with equipment manufacturer Massey Ferguson and the Fresno County Public Works Department before transitioning into the almond industry.“If we really think about it, there's literally no waste that is out there in almonds. With other commodities, they have to say ‘oh we throw those away’ for instance with the hulls. But for almonds, we have a great use for every part of the almond throughout its whole life cycle.” - Bikram HundalIn Today’s episode:Meet Bikram Hundal the vice president of operations for Custom Almonds and Sequoia Nut CompanyDiscover Hundals journey into almonds and the new technology he is excited about expanding within the almond industryExplore some of the industry-wide improvements that are occurring as result of COVID challengesABC UpdateA standardized system of almond grading helps to ensure confidence in the quality and consistency of almonds purchased for various uses. Just last week, the Almond Board of California released an instructive video that explains USDA grades and standards. Jenny Nicolau, senior manager of industry relations and communications at the Almond Board highlights this five-minute video that outlines the sampling and grading process.Watch the video: “Understanding Almond USDA Grades and Standards”The Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices. 

In this episode, we visit with Brandon Rebiero, co-founder and the head of farming at Gold Leaf Farming. Rebiero, who also serves on the board of directors for The Almond Board of California, discusses a recent trip to Washington, D.C. There, a small group of Almond Board directors and staff met with leaders, regulators and other key partners to discuss relevant issues impacting the almond industry.“They're definitely getting our message and obviously it's a big ship and slow to turn, but I felt pretty confident that we're doing everything within our bandwidth to effect change.” - Brandon RebieroIn Today’s episode:Meet Brandon Rebiero, co-founder and head of farming at Gold Leaf Farming and member of the Almond Board of California Board of DirectorsLearn about a recent trip to Washington, D.C. on behalf of the almond industry and the impressions it left on RebieroDiscover what excites Rebiero most about the new Almond Board of California (ABC) CEO, Clarice TurnerABC Update:There is a lot of work happening year-round to deal with important regulatory issues that impact the almond industry. Almond Board of California Vice President of Global Technical and Regulatory Affairs (GTRA) Julie Adams shares more about the work her team does, the value of trips like the one highlighted in this episode and the significant outcomes that this work achieves.“What we tend to do is try and form relationships, partnerships and really good networks to hear what's coming so we can be kind of an early warning system for the industry – to the extent of possibly heading things off before they become issues. I'd say that’s really the challenge for us.” - Julie AdamsLearn more about the work of the GTRA team and committee by listening to the monthly Almond Bytes and reading the Global Updates. The Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.