Almond Alert

Convention Rewind: Kelli Evans - Chair of the Grower Committee | EP15 Almond Alert Almond Alert is brought to you by LMC Manufacturing.  On this episode of Almond Alert, we rewind to the 2023 Almond Alliance Convention, where Aubrey Bettencourt hosts Kelli Evans, the Chair of the Grower Committee. Kelli is also the recipient of the 2023 Grower Member of the Year Award. She has also been a key to the success of the Pollinator Grant.  From the conversation between Aubrey Bettencourt and Kelli Evans, here are five key takeaways: 1. The Almond Alliance and Its Role: The Almond Alliance advocates for almond growers and the industry.  2. The Importance of Policy Advocacy: Kelli and Aubrey discuss the significance of growers and the industry working together to shape policies that benefit them. They discuss the need for a voice in legislative matters and how the Alliance helps facilitate that. 3. Fostering a Sense of Community : Farming can sometimes be isolating, and being part of an organization like the Almond Alliance can create a sense of community among growers. 4. Education and Resources: The Alliance provides valuable resources, workshops, and information to growers. This includes helping growers navigate government programs, ensuring they get the support they need, and assisting with practical advice. 5. Environmental Stewardship: They highlight the importance of demonstrating the industry's commitment to environmental stewardship. Almond growers are encouraged to showcase their sustainable practices and help policymakers understand the positive impact they have on the environment. More about Kelli Evans: https://farmcredit.com/story/evans-farming https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelli-evans-25a9271b5/ The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit https://almondalliance.org/ Follow us on Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/almondalliance/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/almondalliance Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/almondalliance/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/almond-alliance-of-california/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0JKB4hPilGkr4ai9quqf9D Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almond-alert/id1633863632 Almond Alert Podcast | Full Episodes - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ40tUMfuyw0oz-8EU19S6j2 What’s Shakin’ Industry Updates - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ5BC08Gs_TIAChFDdFT9USs

Infrastructure Reform from Left Field | EP14 Almond Alert Almond Alert is brought to you by LMC Manufacturing.  On this episode of Almond Alert, Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance discusses a proposed infrastructure package by Governor Newsom in California. The package aims to streamline the permitting and review processes for infrastructure projects, including water supply, transportation, and environmental protection.  It is seen as controversial due to concerns about the environmental review process and outdated infrastructure. Aubrey explains that investing in infrastructure is necessary for protecting the environment, promoting sustainability, and ensuring economic security. She emphasizes the importance of modernizing infrastructure to meet the challenges of the 21st century.  Overall, this infrastructure package has the potential to meet the three priorities of the Almond Alliance: Keep Farmers Farming, support the communities that support us, and protect the natural resources that protect and provide for us. For more information about this infrastructure package visit, https://almondalliance.org/infrastructure-package/ The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

LandFlex: Phase II  | EP13 Almond Alert Almond Alert is brought to you by LMC Manufacturing.  Summary: On this episode of Seen & Herd, Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance, and Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, discuss the LandFlex Program. They discuss the success of the program's first phase and its expansion into a second phase.  The program aims to provide flexibility to farmers, particularly during droughts and floods and focuses on groundwater recharge. They mention the importance of flood protection and mitigation, as well as the involvement of various organizations in providing technical assistance. In the second phase, the program introduces some changes, such as a competitive selection process for grant awards and a focus on recharge. They emphasize that applying to the program does not have any negative consequences, and farmers can opt-out if the program doesn't suit their needs. Anja also clarifies some misunderstandings about the program. To apply for LandFlex visit: https://landflex.org/  For Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) visit: https://landflex.org/faqs/ The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit: https://almondalliance.org/. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

Day Two Convention Recap: Rocking Out and Building Relationships | EP12 Almond Alert Almond Alert is brought to you by LMC Manufacturing.  On this episode of Almond Alert, Aubrey Bettencourt recaps Day Two of the 2023 Almond Alliance Convention held in La Quinta, California. The convention included a gala dinner where awards were presented to members of the Almond Alliance.  The Associate Member of the Year Award was given to Satake Corporation, a technology supporter who had helped with legislative outreach, particularly in California.  The Grower Member of the Year Award was given to Kelli Evans for her work guiding the Almond Alliance through critical programs and policy development. The convention also featured speeches by the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for the Almond Board and the outgoing CEO of the Almond Board.  An Emeritus Board was established to retain institutional knowledge and support new leadership. The Emeritus Board’s founding member is John Wynn.  A panel discussion called "Wild Women of Water" focused on California water management, addressing topics such as drought, water storage, and the relationship between fish and agriculture.  A second panel called “The Voice of American Almonds - Leading With Solution” highlighted the alliance's approach to addressing issues, emphasizing solutions and advocacy, both locally in California and Federally. The speaker sessions concluded with a one-on-one interview with Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, who discussed the importance of agriculture and almonds in California's economy and future growth. She announced prior to this interview of her intentions to run for Governor of California.  Eleni Kounalakis’ website - https://eleniforca.com/about/ The convention closed out with social events and networking opportunities for attendees. The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

Day One Convention Recap: Rocking Out and Building Relationships | EP11 Almond Alert Almond Alert is brought to you by LMC Manufacturing.  On this episode of Almond Alert, Aubrey Bettencourt recaps Day One of the 2023 Almond Alliance Convention held in La Quinta, California.  Aubrey highlights the energetic atmosphere and the participation of the crowd, including panelists. The convention was the Almond Alliance's largest yet, with over 400 attendees and more than 50 sponsors. The kick-off session covered pollinators and their importance to the almond industry. The discussion included voluntary practices, policy development, habitat promotion, and partnerships.  The keynote lunch featured a guest speaker, Chris Stirewalt, who talked about the media's role in politics and the need for citizens to be critical news consumers.  Link to Chris Stirewalt’s book, “Broken News: Why the Media Rage Machine Divides America and How to Fight Back.” https://a.co/d/2ikYCrY The convention also focused on trade and market trends, exploring opportunities for new market access and addressing challenges such as tariffs and regulatory barriers.  The importance of growers' involvement in their newly launched grower committee aims to give them a voice in shaping industry policies.  Overall, Day One of the Almond Alliance convention showcased the industry's commitment to excellence and the collective effort to overcome challenges and improve. The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

The Unspoken Side of Agriculture  | EP10 Almond Alert Almond Alert is brought to you by LMC Manufacturing.  On this episode of Almond Alert, Aubrey Bettencourt is joined by Ashley Machado, a life coach & all things mental health.  Meet Ashley Machado, a remarkable individual who embodies the essence of resilience and compassion. As a life coach and passionate mental health advocate, she has dedicated her life to supporting others in their journey toward well-being. But what sets Ashley apart is her unique background in agriculture, specifically her expertise in almond farming and raising livestock with her family. Drawing upon her deep-rooted connection to the land, she has found a remarkable way to merge her love for farming with her passion for mental health advocacy. Through workshops, counseling sessions, and community outreach, she empowers farmers to prioritize their mental health, adopt self-care strategies, and navigate the various stressors associated with farming. By cultivating a safe and supportive environment, Ashley helps farmers develop resilience, cope with uncertainty, and cultivate a healthy work-life balance. Her unwavering commitment to both mental health and agriculture has not only transformed the lives of countless individuals but also fostered a stronger, more resilient farming community. For more information, please visit ashleymachado.com or visit her www.instagram.com/byashleymachado. Help is available. Speak with someone today.  988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day. English and Spanish Call 988 The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

We Have Friends in D.C.  | EP09 Almond Alert Almond Alert is brought to you by LMC Manufacturing.  Co-founders Cole Rojewski and Todd Willens of RBW Group join Aubrey Bettencourt, the President and CEO of the Almond Alliance, in this episode. The RBW Group is the Almond Alliance’s new representation in Washington, D.C. They discuss the importance of having friends in D.C.  For more information on the RBW Group, please visit RBW-Group.com. The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

LandFlex Launch | EP07 Almond Alert In this episode, Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance and Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies discuss the latest on LandFlex. For more information on LandFlex, please visit landflex.org For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

Landflex Launch with Anja Raudabaugh | EP05 Almond Alert On this episode of the Almond Alert podcast, Aubrey Bettencourt is joined by Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies as they co-host a dual podcast to bring the launch of Landflex into the public light. Timestamps: 00:00 - Start of discussion with Anja and Aubrey 06:10 - What does Landflex mean and do for your organization 11:49 - What are the details of Landflex The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance

How Will The Election Results Impact the Almond Industry? | EP04 Almond Alert  On this episode of the Almond Alert podcast, Aubrey Bettencourt is joined by Outlaw Strategic Communication Consultants Hector Barajas and Mike Vallante. They discuss how our recent election results can affect the almond industry with tight races all over the country and a near super-majority for the democrats in the California legislature.   Timestamps:  00:00 - Aubrey’s introduction.  02:15 - What are we seeing on the Federal level?  07:29  - Mike: Agriculture should have solutions ready to go.  10:03 - What influence do moderates have on an election?  24:53 -  What can agriculture do to create and maintain relationships with a near Democrat super-majority in California’s State government?  The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

California Needs Water to Grow with Michelle Reimers, TID | EP03 Almond Alert On this episode of the Almond Alert podcast, Aubrey Bettencourt hosts Michelle Reimers, General Manager of the Turlock Irrigation District. Aubrey and Michelle discuss agricultural water in California and how Turlock Irrigation District is unique to their clientele. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Michelle Reimers, Turlock Irrigation District 02:15 - Start of Interview 03:14 - Michelle shares her path to becoming the General Manager of Turlock Irrigation District. 05:34 - How does having a background in marketing become an asset to TID? 08:37 - In a world so hyper-reactionary, How do you get ahead of crisis like the current drought we are in? 12:34 - Why the TID story is so unique? An entity, with the ability empowered by law, acting on real time data to make water decisions. 14:45 - What state of the art technology is TID using to make their water decisions? 17:33 - California’s water storage system is a part of the solution. 20:39 - Water 101: What makes TID very different from other water projects? 29:24 - With additional water demand pressures, what future projects is TID looking forward to? 34:18 - Michelle Reimers gives her perspective on how agriculture and water management sytems communicate to make change. 40:48 - Comment your ideas to make the Almond Alert podcast better for you, the listener! The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

The Future of Western Water with Dan Keppen | Almond Alert EP02 On this episode of the Almond Alert podcast, Aubrey Bettencourt hosts Dan Keppen, Executive Director of Family Farm Alliance, about the future of Western water. The Family Farm Alliance advocates for family farmers, ranchers, irrigation districts, and allied industries in 17 Western states to ensure the availability of reliable, affordable irrigation water needed to produce the world’s food, fiber, and fuel. You can support Family Farm Alliance or find out more information by going to their website: FamilyFarmAlliance.org 00:18 - Introduction to Dan Keppen. 03:21 - The Family Farm Alliance’s beginnings. 04:41 - Keying in on the Western state’s water status: Federal Water Projects and Water Management. 08:39 - The Farmer Lobbyists - The Family Farm Alliance has perfected the prioritization and messaging around water issues; then listing items needed to amend the identified problem. 13:10 - Using influence to help direct Federal dollars to aid Western water 20:53 - How can the agriculture community better communicate with the consumer? 29:52 - How the upcoming election affects Western water. 32:47 - Inside look at inter-agency communication and coordination. 38:06 - Final thoughts. The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Spotify Apple Podcast Youtube - Almond Alliance Youtube - What’s Shakin’ Playlist Youtube - Almond Alert Podcast Playlist

What's Shakin' at the Almond Alliance | June 17th, 2022 This week, Aubrey Bettencourt covers: ➡️ Seattle, WA - AG Trade Coalition Conference ➡️ Almond Express - Click the link below to learn more about how we are helping move the 2021 Almond Crop and creating new trade relationships for future crops. ➡️ Washington, D.C. - Ocean Shipping Reform Act was passed and signed into law by President Joe Biden this week. ➡️ While in D.C. Aubrey briefed many House and Senate Members on The Almond Express. ➡️ USDA plans to honor buying almonds under Section 32 and will announce soon. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance visit AlmondAlliance.org. Follow us: Facebook Instagram Twitter

What's Shakin' at the Almond Alliance | June 10th, 2022 This week, Aubrey Bettencourt covers: ➡️ The 2021 almond crop is shipping!  ➡️ Water and Drought Relief. ➡️ Emergency Relief Program Update - Phase 2 update. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance visit AlmondAlliance.org.

What's Shakin' at the Almond Alliance | May 27th, 2022 This week, Aubrey Bettencourt covers: ➡️ Meeting at USDA's HQ ➡️ Emergency Relief Program Update - Phase 1 of 2 is Active ➡️ Pop-Up Yard at Port of Oakland ➡️ BPIA Conference ➡️ New Issue of the Almond Advantage is Available To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance visit AlmondAlliance.org.

Clarice Turner, CEO of the Almond Board of California, has a special message for the Almond Alliance Convention.

On this episode of Almond Alert, Aubrey Bettencourt welcomes Jennifer Pierre, the State Water Contractors General Manager. Aubrey and Jennifer delve deep into the multifaceted realm of California water management, examining pivotal policy decisions and the intricate challenges ahead. As California confronts evolving water needs and environmental imperatives, collaborative decision-making and forward-thinking policies emerge as imperative. Join us as we navigate the complexities of California's water landscape and explore pathways toward a sustainable and resilient water future. The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit https://almondalliance.org/ Follow us on Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/almondalliance/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/almondalliance Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/almondalliance/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/almond-alliance-of-california/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0JKB4hPilGkr4ai9quqf9D Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almond-alert/id1633863632 Almond Alert Podcast | Full Episodes - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ40tUMfuyw0oz-8EU19S6j2 What’s Shakin’ Industry Updates - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ5BC08Gs_TIAChFDdFT9USs Connect with Aubrey Bettencourt: Aubrey’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aubrey-bettencourt-58838021/

Join us in this episode of Almond Alert, where we delve deep into the intricate world of agricultural advocacy in Sacramento. Aubrey Bettencourt introduces us to Erin Norwood, and we explore the complexities of representing the almond industry amidst the ever-changing political landscape of California's capital. From building alliances to navigating budget constraints, Erin shares invaluable insights and strategies for effective advocacy. The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit https://almondalliance.org/ Follow us on Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/almondalliance/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/almondalliance Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/almondalliance/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/almond-alliance-of-california/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0JKB4hPilGkr4ai9quqf9D Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almond-alert/id1633863632 Almond Alert Podcast | Full Episodes - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ40tUMfuyw0oz-8EU19S6j2 What’s Shakin’ Industry Updates - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ5BC08Gs_TIAChFDdFT9USs Connect with Aubrey Bettencourt: Aubrey’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aubrey-bettencourt-58838021/

Almond Board’s New CEO, Clarice Turner, Is All Business  | EP17 Almond Alert On this episode of Almond Alert, Aubrey Bettencourt hosts Clarice Turner, The Almond Board’s New CEO. They discuss the latest challenges and potential solutions for the almond industry. The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit https://almondalliance.org/ Follow us on Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/almondalliance/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/almondalliance Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/almondalliance/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/almond-alliance-of-california/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0JKB4hPilGkr4ai9quqf9D Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almond-alert/id1633863632 Almond Alert Podcast | Full Episodes - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ40tUMfuyw0oz-8EU19S6j2 What’s Shakin’ Industry Updates - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ5BC08Gs_TIAChFDdFT9USs Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance Aubrey’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aubrey-bettencourt-58838021/

The Farm Bill: Will it Happen in ‘24 or ‘25?  | EP16 Almond Alert On this episode of Almond Alert, Cole Rojewski hosts Secretary Mike Johanns and Senator Heidi Heitkamp. They discuss the latest on the Farm Bill. The Almond Alert Podcast is hosted by Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance.  To learn more or become a member of the Almond Alliance, visit https://almondalliance.org/ Follow us on Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/almondalliance/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/almondalliance Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/almondalliance/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/almond-alliance-of-california/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0JKB4hPilGkr4ai9quqf9D Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almond-alert/id1633863632 Almond Alert Podcast | Full Episodes - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ40tUMfuyw0oz-8EU19S6j2 What’s Shakin’ Industry Updates - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KpfJIiqgZ5BC08Gs_TIAChFDdFT9USs Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance Aubrey’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aubrey-bettencourt-58838021/