Pacific Nut Producer Magazine

Category: Almonds

  • Electrical Weed Control (EWC) in Organic Almonds and Blueberries

    Two years ago, I shared my first blog about the Zasso electrical weed control (EWC) unit—a tractor-mounted device powered by the tractor’s PTO. (My first blog about the basic of EWC and unit specifications)

    In spring 2023, we established two organic blocks, one with almonds and one with blueberries, to further evaluate the weed control efficacy and crop safety of the Zasso unit in newly established tree and berry systems. In these trials, we tested different combinations of speed and power to control the total current/energy flowing into the ground. This approach is similar to herbicide trials where we often test at different rates to evaluate crop injury (e.g., 2X, 4X rates). Both experiments included comparisons with standard organic weed control practices such as organic herbicide (Suppress EC), mowing, and hand weeding.

    In the blueberry experiment, we also applied two mulching types (sawdust and plastic), and each plot with different mulching types was treated with all the EWC treatments to evaluate the interactions between these two practices. Since blueberries are planted on berms, we only treated the berm shoulders with EWC (Figure 2).

    Figure 1. Organic blueberry field with three different mulching types as treatments
    Figure 2. EWC treating the shoulder of the sawdust mulching blueberry plot

    2023 Findings

    During the 2023 growing season, all EWC treatments showed promising weed control results. In the almond block, the highest-energy EWC treatment kept the floor weed-free for 35-40 days. In the blueberry block, where we used one drip line (versus two in the almond block), the shoulders stayed dry for most of the summer. After our first EWC application in late May (almond) and early June (blueberry), weed pressure in all EWC-treated blueberry plots remained low throughout the season, with some plots staying weed-free even longer than the same treatment in the almond block. We measured tree height, trunk diameter, and blueberry plant canopy volume, finding no significant differences in plant growth across treatments for either crop.

    Figure 3. EWC in organic almond block

    2024 Focus

    In 2024, we continued measuring growth data and collected soil samples for soil health analysis in both blocks. One of my research goals is to address a key grower concern about this technique by assessing the impact of EWC on soil microbes. While soil physical properties should remain unchanged (due to no soil disturbance), soil microbes—which play a crucial role in nutrient cycling—could be sensitive to electric shocks and surface temperature spikes. Then, we will look at how two years of more than 10 EWC applications will impact weed species distribution.

    Figure 4. EWC untreated (top) and treated (bottom) almond plots in April 2024

    2025 Plans 

    Coming into 2025, we plan to continue the blueberry and almond work on campus and also conduct additional research in growers’ fields and test it out in additional tree crops. We will continue to collect weed control efficacy data on an array of common orchard weeds in California. Lastly, we plan to start an experiment to examine how soil moisture at the time of EWC treatment affects the weed control efficacy and whether there are any effects from different irrigation regimes.

    Figure 6. Equipment testing in non crop area before EWC treatment in organic almond and blueberry at UC Davis.

    Frequently Asked Questions about EWC Technology

    Q: Are there any safety concerns with EWC?

    A: Yes, since this is a high-voltage application targeting above-ground vegetation, the circuit can create arcing and potentially cause fires. The manufacturer requires scouting behind the tractor during applications. Multiple EWC applications and mowing operations over a season leave dead vegetation on the ground, which can easily ignite, especially at higher power settings. We have noticed a seasonal pattern, with more fires occurring in fall than summer, and we are still investigating the causes.

    Q: How does soil moisture affect EWC operation?

    A: Soil moisture is an important factor. Soil that is too wet can cause generator overload by drawing too much energy. In contrast, overly dry soil has high electrical resistance, reducing current flow through plants. Our unit includes a setting to adjust power based on soil moisture, so selecting the right setting is essential for effective application. This is an area of ongoing research in California and with our collaborators in Oregon and New York.

    Q: How do different weed species respond to EWC?

    A: The weed growth stage matters more than species. EWC is effective on most weeds at the seedling stage but start losing efficacy with mature or flowering weeds that are woody or have less tissue moisture because electrical conductance is lower. Grasses can be challenging if they are matured and developed multiple tillers, as central tillers may avoid direct contact with the EWC applicator electrodes.

    Q: How effective is EWC on perennial weeds?

    A: EWC can manage bindweed and yellow nutsedge with multiple applications throughout the season. Regrowth and reemergence can occur if the vegetation does not directly contact with the electrode due to obstacles like soil clumps or overlapping plants. We are running an experiment to quantify perennial weed regrowth and reemergence.

    Q: Is this unit available on the market?

    A: Zasso has partnered with New Holland to bring this technology to the US. Please check out their website https://yellowblueandyou.newholland.com/en-gb/pf-global-2024/xpower-xps to look at the unit for the vineyard (XPower XPS). We will have a vineyard trial in 2025 in partnership with the farm operation and equipment distributor to evaluate the cost-efficiency of EWC in a large scale site.

    Since I have been working and studying this unit for two years, I truly believe it is a valuable option for organic berry and tree fruit and nut production. It can also become an alternative to some of the post-emergent herbicides used in integrated pest management (IPM) programs in sustainable agriculture.

    Our EWC project is funded by USDA NIFA Organic Research and Education Initiative. Please check out our website: https://eorganic.info/node/35946 for interviews and research updates from our collaborators: Moretti Lab at Oregon State University and Sosnoskie Lab at Cornell University. We are testing the same unit but on different crops. We also want to thank New Holland for the tractor support. — By Tong Zhen & Brad Hansen, UC Davis

  • Blue Diamond Growers Honors Bill Brush, Releases Annual Report

    Blue Diamond Growers held their 114th Annual Meeting on Nov. 20 in Modesto, CA. President and CEO, Kai Bockmann, highlighted the farmer-owned cooperative’s successes over the last year and the progress made against its strategic growth plan. Blue Diamond Grower, Bill Brush of Modesto, received the Chairman’s Grower Ambassador of the Year Award, presented by Blue Diamond Chairman Steve Van Duyn – also of Modesto.

    Kai Bockman, President and CEO, Blue Diamond Growers

    With nearly 1,000 farmer-owners in attendance, Bockmann and Van Duyn reflected on the year noting that despite continued challenges facing the industry, Blue Diamond achieved great successes against its strategic plan to deliver a competitive return to its growers.

    “This year, amidst the challenges, Blue Diamond has fought for its members by tapping into every opportunity to strengthen our portfolio and increase demand for our almonds,” said Van Duyn. “I am confident that through the excellent leadership of our Board of Directors and the Blue Diamond team good times are ahead.”

    Alongside several company executives – Carmen Bourgaize, Chief Commercial Officer, Tony LaurenzanaSenior Vice President, Ingredients and Branded International Sales, Steve Schult, Vice President, Supply Chain, and Mel Machado, Vice President, Member Relations – Bockmann shared how the Cooperative is strengthening its core business while creating new opportunities for growth by expanding its international footprint and product portfolio.

    “What drives us every day is to deliver the highest return for your almonds,” said Bockmann. “Our ability to adapt swiftly to changing market conditions, paired with our strategic planning and forward-thinking approach, enabled us to navigate through difficult circumstances and see positive returns from our strategic plan.”

    Over the last year, Blue Diamond drove strategic investments in key international markets including Canada, Mexico, Japan, Europe and the Middle East. A new partnership with Japanese company, Kagome®, is set to position Japan to be a top international market for Blue Diamond’s Almond Breeze® almondmilk. The Cooperative successfully launched their large format for club stores in Mexico and established a new distributor in the Middle East, catering to markets across the region. In Europe, new flavored almonds are being introduced, offering customers additional flavors and forms.

    Domestically, Blue Diamond’s focus on innovative offerings continues to make an impact in the market, captivating consumers with their unique flavors and textures. Broadening its presence in the grocery store, Blue Diamond released two new product lines – a tasty array of almond and almond fruit blends for retail produce departments and Almonds and More mixed nut products. A new snack nut, Ranch flavor, launched and was picked up by major retails across hundreds of stores, while consumer favorites Chile n’ Lime and Snickerdoodle launched nationwide.

    “Blue Diamond’s products have tremendous value to offer consumers – innovation, flavor, nutrition, and convenience,” said Carmen Bourgaize, Chief Commercial Officer. “We are leveraging these strengths to entice consumers and drive consumption.”

    In addition to outlining progress made on the strategic plan, the executive panel noted the company’s focus on maximizing efficiencies across the business. Investing in state-of-the-art equipment has optimized operations across all facilities, while energy conservation initiatives improved air compression inefficiencies to achieve energy savings.

    Bockmann concluded the business meeting expressing optimism for Blue Diamond’s future and the company’s key differentiator – its people. Supporting more than 4,400 families between its farmers and team members, Blue Diamond is steadfast in its commitment to continued growth and progress for the Cooperative.

    “It all comes down to one thing: build a bigger, better stronger Blue Diamond that provides the best return for our growers’ almonds. This is only the beginning of us Growing Together,” said Bockmann.

    Blue Diamond Chairman’s Award

    At this year’s annual meeting, Blue Diamond’s Board Chairman Steve Van Duyn presented the 2024 Chairman Award to Bill Brush. Brush, a Blue Diamond grower for more than 40 years, is an agronomist, water expert and plant nutritionist. Through his consulting business B&B Ag Consulting, Brush has assisted farmers throughout the world with soil fertility and water treatments. More recently, he has continued his work of educating the agricultural community through his podcast, “Agriculture in a Nutshell.” Brush is a steadfast advocate for agriculture and the almond industry serving more than 18 years on the Almond Board of California.

    Blue Diamond Annual Report Now Available

    In conjunction with the Annual Meeting, the Blue Diamond Growers 2024 “Growing Together” Annual Report is now available on the Blue Diamond website at www.bluediamond.com.

    About Blue Diamond Growers®

    Blue Diamond Growers, a grower-owned cooperative representing nearly 3,000 of California’s almond growers, is the world’s leading almond marketer and processor. Established in 1910, it created the California almond industry and opened world markets for almonds. Blue Diamond is dedicated to delivering the benefits of almonds around the world and does so by providing high-quality almonds, almond ingredients, and branded products. Headquartered in Sacramento, the company employs approximately 1,400 people throughout its processing plants, receiving stations and gift shops. To learn more about Blue Diamond Growers, visit www.BlueDiamond.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

  • California Almond Acreage Drops Again in 2024

    California’s total almond acreage dropped again in 2024, making three years in a row that acreage has decreased, something that has not happened since at least 1995, according to a new report from Land IQ to the Almond Board of California (ABC).

    Total acreage dropped by about 40,000 acres from 1.56 million acres in the last crop year to just over 1.52 million in 2024. Bearing acres – orchards producing almonds and planted in 2021 or earlier – increased by the smallest amount in more than two decades, just 9,000 acres. The total of bearing acres during the 2024 growing season was 1.383 million acres compared with 1.374 million acres at this time last year.

    But the amount of non-bearing acreage – new orchards planted in 2022, 2023 or 2024 – sank about 47,000 acres from 189,000 acres in 2023 to 142,000 in 2024, according to the Land IQ 2024 Standing Acreage Final Estimate.

    “Three straight years of decreased acreage and sizeable orchard removals reflect a trend toward lower overall California almond acreage,” said Clarice Turner, ABC president and CEO. “At the same time, we continue to see strong shipments – in the past crop year, for the first time ever, we shipped more than 200 million pounds in 11 consecutive months, plus for the year, we shipped 300 million pounds more than we produced. We know global demand for California almonds continues to grow and that almonds will continue to have a very significant role in California and global agriculture and food industries for the foreseeable future.”

    There were significant orchard removals again in 2024 totaling almost 67,000 acres. Those add to the 83,000 acres removed in 2023 and 60,400 acres removed in 2022, according to the accompanying Land IQ 2023 Removal Update. Those removals and the decreasing amount of non-bearing acres, or new plantings, contribute to the probability of fewer acres over the next few years, Turner said.

    In addition, slightly more than 30,000 acres are classified as either stressed or abandoned. They were included in the standing acreage total because the orchards “may have the ability to recover,” Land IQ said.

    The estimates come from multiple lines of evidence, including agronomic and remote sensing knowledge, robust on-the-ground verification, customized image analysis, artificial intelligence and more. Land IQ said the 2024 standing acreage estimate is 98.8 percent accurate.

    The report also said the slight change in the amount of bearing acreage from the April initial estimate – which was labeled as exactly that, the initial accounting – was the result of Land IQ crews in the orchards identifying additional bearing acres, and because removals were overestimated in April by about 4,000 acres.

    Land IQ’s acreage estimates are commissioned by ABC to provide statistical transparency and a robust picture of California almonds to industry stakeholders around the world. In 2018, ABC first commissioned Land IQ, a Sacramento-based agricultural and environmental scientific research and consulting firm, to develop a comprehensive, living map of California almonds. The map is the result of more than a decade of research. — By the Almond Board of California

  • Blue Diamond Growers Awarded National FFA’s Distinguished Service Citation for Giving Tuesday Contributions

    Blue Diamond Growers was recently awarded the prestigious Distinguished Service Citation by the National FFA Organization at the 97th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Ind.

    The Distinguished Service Citation is an esteemed award honoring organizations, agencies, businesses, or other groups who have made outstanding contributions to FFA and agricultural education. Awardees must be nominated by a state association. Blue Diamond Growers was among the four awardees acknowledged at this year’s National FFA Convention.

    This year, the California Association FFA nominated Blue Diamond Growers, paying homage to their longstanding partnership on Giving Tuesday. This day is an annual tradition for FFA alumni, friends, and supporters to rally behind the California FFA Foundation’s “Give the Gift of Blue” initiative, which provides FFA jackets and uniform essentials to deserving FFA members.

    Set to be held on December 3 this year, the contributions made on Giving Tuesday are multiplied by the unwavering support of Blue Diamond Growers, who, since 2017, have pledged to match every donation up to $25,000.

    “This marks our eighth Giving Tuesday, a tradition of raising funds to ‘Give the Gift of Blue,’ in partnership with Blue Diamond Growers,” said Emily Rooney, chair of the California FFA Foundation and president of the Agricultural Council of California. “With the support of Blue Diamond Growers, we have raised over $463,785, providing 5,293 FFA jackets to members throughout California. We are delighted to see their efforts recognized by National FFA with the Distinguished Service Citation.”

    With California’s record-breaking membership of more than 104,000 middle and high school students, the demand for blue jackets has never been greater. The iconic blue jacket stands as more than just a part of the official FFA uniform; it also embodies the values of leadership and rich agricultural tradition instilled in FFA members for over 96 years.

    “We are extremely honored and grateful to have received the Distinguished Service Award from FFA,” said Steve Van Duyn, chairman of Blue Diamond Growers. “As a farmer-owned cooperative, we have a long history of supporting the next generation of agriculturists and food producers and are proud to continue this effort through our partnership with FFA.”

    Beyond Giving Tuesday, Blue Diamond Growers has been a steadfast ally to FFA and agricultural education, extending support through sponsorships of various proficiencies and awards. With 114 years of agricultural history in Northern California, and the participation of approximately 3,000 family growers responsible for producing almonds for the world, Blue Diamond Growers epitomizes a legacy of excellence.

    To discover more about the California FFA Foundation’s Giving Tuesday initiative or to contribute, please visit www.calaged.org/givingtuesday. Follow California FFA on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

    About the California FFA Foundation

    California FFA Foundation serves more than 104,000 California students and strives to make a difference in their lives by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through educational education. To learn more about the California FFA, visit calaged.org.

    About Blue Diamond Growers®

    Blue Diamond Growers, a grower-owned cooperative representing over 3,000 of California’s almond growers, is the world’s leading almond marketer and processor. Established in 1910, it created the California almond industry and opened world markets for almonds. Blue Diamond is dedicated to delivering the benefits of almonds around the world and does so by providing high-quality almonds, almond ingredients, and branded products. Headquartered in Sacramento, the company employs more than 1,600 people throughout its processing plants, receiving stations and gift shops. To learn more about Blue Diamond Growers, visit www.BlueDiamond.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

  • New Frosted Brownie Almonds for the Holidays

    To kick off the holiday season, Blue Diamond, the world’s leading almond marketer and processor, today announced the launch of a new seasonal flavor: Blue Diamond Frosted Brownie Almonds. A]er exploring over 60 different holiday flavors and experimenting with 11 variations of frosted brownie, Blue Diamond has crafted a unique, festive treat that combines the flavors of rich chocolate and creamy frosting with the signature crunch of almonds creating an irresistible holiday snack.

    “We like to consistently test different flavor innovations, especially around the holidays, to expand our product portfolio based on what we know consumers are craving,” said Maya Erwin, Vice President of Marketing & Innovation at Blue Diamond. “Chocolate and the holidays go hand in hand, so we created Frosted Brownie to lean into this seasonal flavor, allowing snackers to enjoy the rich and creamy indulgence of a brownie, all with the crunch and goodness of an almond.”

    This is the third year Blue Diamond has released limited-edition holiday flavors, following last year’s soaring sales of Blue Diamond’s returning flavor, Snickerdoodle, highlighting the strong consumer demand for seasonal flavor offerings. Returning once again for 2024, consumers can enjoy the delicious cinnamon sugar cookie taste of Blue Diamond Snickerdoodle Almonds that they’ve come to love over the past two years.

    Blue Diamond is known for its unique lineup of craveable flavors such as Ranch, Thin Dipped and Chilé ‘N Lime and will increase its lineup of 20+ flavors with this latest holiday flavor expansion.

    From now through December 2024, holiday fanatics can find these holiday almond flavors in 6oz cans at major retailers nationwide and Amazon.com (MSRP: $4.29). For more information on existing and new products, visit BlueDiamond.com.

  • Smoke from Megafires Reduces Nut Crop Yields

    Long-term smoke exposure from massive wildfires lowers the energy reserves of orchard trees and can cut their nut production by half, researchers at the University of California, Davis, found. The smoke can affect trees for months after a megafire, depressing their bloom and the next season’s harvest. This finding reveals a new danger from wildfires that could affect plant health in both agricultural and natural environments.

    Nature Plants published the study on Oct. 2nd.

    “A lot of research focuses on the impact of smoke on humans but there is less study on the effects of smoke on plant health,” said lead author Jessica Orozco, a postdoctoral researcher with the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences. “Our study suggests that trees are just as vulnerable as humans.”

    Wildfire smoke blocks sunlight

    Scientists studied almond, pistachio and walnut trees at 467 orchard sites in California’s Central Valley from 2018 to 2022. In 2020, megafires scorched more than 4.2 million acres in California, filling the skies with smoke and ash. At the time, researchers were studying how trees store energy, in the form of carbohydrates, to cope with heat and drought. But Orozco said the team saw an opportunity to study how smoke affects carbohydrate levels.

    “Photosynthesis produces carbohydrates, which are critical elements for tree survival,” said Orozco. “Trees need carbohydrates not just to grow but to store energy for when they’re under stress or when photosynthesis isn’t happening.”

    Photosynthesis changes under smoke-filled skies. Smoke particles block some sunlight but also reflect light, creating more diffused light. The diffused light can help trees make more carbohydrates. However, Orozco said the study found that while diffused light increased, the smoke was so thick that it likely didn’t compensate for the loss of direct light.

    Megafires have lingering effects on tree health

    The team found that megafire smoke not only reduced the amount of carbohydrates in trees but also caused losses that continued even after the fires were out. This led to nut yield decreases of 15% to as much as 50% in some orchards. The most active time for wildfires also coincides with the time trees start storing carbohydrates to sustain them through winter dormancy and spring growth.

    “We were expecting to see some impact especially in the months when the smoke was really dense, but we weren’t expecting the smoke to have such a lingering effect and result in a significant drop in yield,” Orozco said.

    Orozco said researchers still don’t know what components in megafire smoke caused the decrease in tree carbohydrates. During the 2020 megafires, the smoke reduced light and increased both ozone and particulate matter levels, all of which affect photosynthesis. One or a combination of these factors could have led to the drop in tree carbohydrates.

    Additional authors on the study are Professor Maciej A. Zwieniecki and postdoctoral researcher Paula Guzmán-Delgado of the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences.

    The Almond Board of California, the California Pistachio Research Board, the California Walnut Board and the California Department of Food and Agriculture supported the research.

  • Increase of Chilean Almond & Walnut Production/Exports Forecasted

    The USDA Foreign Ag Serive (Post) projects increased production in both Chilean walnuts and almonds in marketing year (MY) 2024/25 due to high yields caused by plentiful rainfall and favorable temperatures. Post estimates walnut production will reach 195,000 metric tons (MT) in MY 2024/25, a 11.4 percent increase year over year. Walnut exports will total 192,500 MT (in-shell basis), which represents a 12.1 percent increase over MY 2023/24. Meanwhile, walnut area planted is projected to increase only slightly, continuing a trend from recent years of stagnating growth. Producers have shifted to more profitable crops such as cherries, lemons, and mandarins, and because of changes in land use as urban areas continue to expand in the central area of the country. For almonds, Post projects that production will reach 11,500 MT for MY 2024/25, a 1.8 percent increase over MY 2023/24. Chilean almond exports will total 7,600 MT, a 4.1 percent increase over MY 2023/24.

    Commodities:

    Walnuts, Inshell Basis

    Production:

    In MY 2024/25, due to high yields, Post estimates walnut production at 195,000 MT, a 11.4 percent increase year over year. Post expects yields to increase in MY 2024/25, due to a winter with abundant rainfall and chill hour accumulation, and assuming no unexpected climatic events during the spring and summer which could lower production. In MY 2023/24, yields were low as production was hindered due to unfavorable climatic conditions.

    Post expects area planted in MY 2024/25 to increase slightly, by 0.8 percent, to 45,000 hectares because growth in the central-southern walnut production regions is offset by a decrease in the central- northern regions.

    In MY 2023/24, area planted decreased by 3.5 percent, totaling 44,626 hectares (Figure 1). Area planted is concentrated mainly in the central-south part of the country, specifically in the Metropolitana, O’Higgins and Maule regions, which together hold over 72 percent of the area planted (table 2). However, area planted in the Metropolitana region, the top walnut producing region in Chile, decreased by 5.5 percent. Walnut area planted was replaced by more profitable crops such as cherries, lemons, and mandarins, or was displaced by expansion of the urban area. Walnut area planted also decreased in the regions in the central-north part of the country, Valparaiso and Coquimbo. In these regions, area planted with walnuts was replaced mainly by citrus and cherries.

    Consumption:

    In MY 2024/25, Post estimates consumption at 2,850 MT, a 1.8 percent increase over MY 2023/24, following higher production and population growth which is situated at close to one percent annually. Producers export most of their walnut production, and domestic consumption of walnuts represents a little over one percent of total production. Local consumers use shelled walnuts for snacks. Walnuts for snacks are generally the highest quality in terms of color, size and shape. The confectionary industry uses fragmented walnuts as an ingredient in desserts, pastries, and chocolates.

    Trade:

    For MY 2024/25, due to higher production, Post projects 192,500 MT of walnut exports (in-shell basis), which represents a 12.1 percent increase over MY 2023/24. For MY 2023/24, Post estimates that walnut exports will finalize at 171,788 MT, which represents a 9.9 percent decrease from the previous marketing year.

    Figure 2 shows monthly export volume of walnuts. In MY 2023/24, monthly exports show low volumes compared to the previous marketing year, especially in May and June, which are regularly peak export months. The low exports volumes follow low production volumes and a reduction in walnut quality due to unfavorable climatic conditions.

    In MY 2023/24 (January to June data) exports decreased by 40.6 percent in volume and 32.2 percent in value (see Table 3 and Table 4). Post estimates that this high decrease in exports is due to the low export volumes observed in the first half of MY 2023/24. Post expects exports to increase in August and September, which are peak export months for Chilean walnuts.

    In MY 2022/23 Turkey, India and Italy were the top markets for Chilean walnuts. The Chilean walnut export industry has focused a lot of its marketing efforts in developing the Indian market. Exports to India increased by 108 percent and became Chile’s top market for in-shell walnuts, displacing Turkey, which had been the top market for in-shell walnuts in the past. On the other hand, the European market imports most of the Chilean shelled walnuts.

    Stocks:

    Post projects MY 2024/25 stocks at 4,000 MT, unchanged from the previous marketing year, assuming regular market conditions. Chilean walnut exporters do not store large quantities of walnuts unless there are specific market conditions that justify it, such as high freight costs or low prices. Post estimates MY 2023/24 stocks at 4,000 MT, which is a 29.5 percent increase over MY 2022/23. This increase is due to a lower quality crop, which decreased the share of almonds that complied with export quality requirements, which will result in an increase in stocks.

    Policy:

    No policy updates since the last GAIN report.

    Commodities:

    Almonds, Shelled Basis

    Production:

    For MY 2024/25, Post estimates almond area planted at 8,700 hectares, a 0.3 percent decrease over MY 2023/24 (see Table 5). Almond area planted spans from the Coquimbo region, in the northern part of the country, to the O’Higgins region in the central south. The top almond producing region in Chile is the O’Higgins region, which holds 37.7 percent of the area planted and which grew 11.1 percent in the past three years (table 6). On the contrary, the second top production region, the Metropolitana region, decreased by 13.3 percent in a three-year period. The Metropolitana region comprises 35.9 percent of the almond area planted.

    For MY 2024/25, Post projects that production will reach 11,500 MT, a 1.8 percent increase over MY 2023/24. This increase is driven by high yields and assumes no adverse climatic events that could hinder production. In MY 2023/24, almonds experienced adverse climatic conditions which lowered yields. As a result, Post estimates MY 2023/24 production volume will decrease by 9.6 percent and total 11,300 metric tons. However, almond production remains a good and relatively profitable alternative to other crops which have grown substantially in area planted, such as cherries, citrus, and walnuts.

    Consumption:

    In MY 2023/24, Post projects almond consumption at 7,700 MT, a 1.3 percent increase over MY 2022/23 due to population growth and a high demand for almonds. The domestic market for almonds is attractive for producers due to the competitive prices observed in Chile. Post estimates that 67 percent of commercial production is consumed domestically.

    Chile also imports almonds for use in the confectionary industry. The industry uses imported almonds to produce chocolates since they require smaller sized flat almonds that are not characteristic of the Chilean varieties.

    Trade:

    In MY 2024/25, Post estimates that total exports of Chilean almonds will reach 7,600 MT, a 4.1 percent increase over MY 2023/24 due to the higher yields and production volume. In MY 2023/24 (data until June), Chilean almond exports decreased by 20.5 percent in volume and 6.3 percent in value over MY 2022/23 (see Table 7 and 8). This decrease in exports follows the decrease in production.

    Figure 4 shows monthly almond exports. Almond monthly export volume in MY 2023/24 is lower compared to the previous marketing year. This reduction in exports is explained by lower almond production. Exports usually peak between June and October each marketing year since exporters can pack and store until they can allocate their exports and maximize their sale price.

    Top markets for Chilean almonds are Argentina, Russia, and Ecuador. Exports to Argentina grew by 10.2 percent in MY 2022/23. Exports to Russia grew by 59.6 percent as market conditions for Chilean exporters recovered in MY 2022/23. Ecuador remains the third top market for Chilean almonds, although almond export to Ecuador decreased by 10.5 percent in MY 2022/23.

    Post estimates that in MY 2024/25 almond imports will increase by 14.3 percent and total 4,000 MT to cover domestic consumption needs. Post expects an increase in imports as production remains virtually stagnant and consumption keeps growing at a moderate rate. The United States remains the top supplier of almonds to Chile. In MY 2023/24 (data until June), Chile imported 1,675 MT of almonds, representing a 3.3 percent increase over MY 2022/23. Ninety-nine percent of total almond imports were sourced from the United States.

    Stocks:

    Post estimates stocks in MY 2024/25 at 819 MT, a 32.3 percent increase, assuming higher production. Chilean almond exporters do not store large stocks of almonds, and stocks correspond to regular remaining monthly stocks.

    Policy:

    No policy updates since the last GAIN report. — By Sergio Gonzalez, USDA Foreign Ag Service

  • Blue Diamond Growers Receives Cal/OSHA Recognition for Exceptional Safety

    Blue Diamond Growers, a farmer-owned Cooperative and the world’s leading almond marketer and processor, recently received the “Star Site” designation through Cal/OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) at their Salida Facility. The designation recognizes employers who have voluntarily managed outstanding safety and health programs. Only 63 sites within the state, including Blue Diamond, share the “Star Site” title.

    Beginning the formal process in 2023, Blue Diamond underwent the rigorous application to demonstrate exceptional safety at their Salida facility. This included numerous audits, formal interviews and a comprehensive review of their employee-driven program. As with all Star Site designees, the facility showed that their work-related injury and illness rates over the last three years (DART and TCIR) were 90 percent below industry average.

    “Through our partnership with Cal OSHA, we have elevated our safety program from best-in-class to world class,” said Victor Gomez Terres, Blue Diamond Site Director of Salida. “Safety at Blue Diamond is team member-led, and this designation is a culmination of their incredible effort and commitment to keeping themselves and each other safe.”

    Blue Diamond’s Salida facility has received and processed its farmers’ almonds since 1969. Today, it is the largest almond receiving center in the world. With eight warehouses and multiple processing lines, millions of pounds of almonds are either received or shipped out of the facility on any given day. The Cooperative’s ability to bring delicious, healthy products to the world would not be possible without its strong commitment to the health and safety of their 1,600 team members.

    “Blue Diamond’s success as the world’s largest almond company hinges on the safety of our operations and the wellbeing of our team members. I am proud that this milestone achievement validates our commitment to safety culture,” said Jeff Hatfield, SVP of Manufacturing for Blue Diamond.

    Coinciding with October as National Manufacturing Month, the Cooperative will hold a formal celebration and flag raising ceremony to honor team members and their partnership with Cal/OSHA.

    About Blue Diamond

    Blue Diamond Growers, a grower-owned cooperative representing over 3,000 of California’s almond growers, is the world’s leading almond marketer and processor. Established in 1910, it created the California almond industry and opened world markets for almonds. Blue Diamond is dedicated to delivering the benefits of almonds around the world and does so by providing high-quality almonds, almond ingredients, and branded products. Headquartered in Sacramento, the company employs more than 1,600 people throughout its processing plants, receiving stations and gift shops. To learn more about Blue Diamond Growers, visit www.BlueDiamond.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

  • Nominations Being Accepted for Almond Achievement Awards

    The Almond Board of California honors two industry or allied industry members annually at their annual Almond Conference in Sacramento, CA. The nomination deadline for the 2024 awards is October 29, 2024.

    Almond Achievement Award

    Beginning in 2011, the goal of the Almond Achievement Award is to recognize an industry member who has added value through long-term service for the betterment of the California almond industry. ​Award recipients are individuals with long-standing and direct involvement, who ​demonstrate lasting impact on, and commitment to, the California almond industry.​

    Dick Cunningham received the 2023 Almond Achievement Award at The Almond Conference in December.

    Left to right – Bertie Areias, Dick Cunningham, Sarah Cunningham, Alexi Rodriguez (image courtesy of the Almond Board of California)

    Nominate someone for the 2024 AAA award.

    Almond Technical Achievement Award

    Beginning in 2021, the goal of the Almond Technical Achievement Award is to recognize an industry or allied industry member who has contributed a significant technical advancement for the betterment of the California almond industry through research, innovation or facilitated adoption of practices. Award recipients have contributed significant research, facilitated an innovative practice, or assisted in the adoption of a practice for the betterment of the industry.

    Wes Asai was awarded the 2023 Almond Technical Achievement Award at The Almond Conference in December.

    Left to right – Wes Asai, Gina Asai, Carrie Asai, Alicia Rockwell (image courtesy of the Almond Board of California)

    Nominate someone for the 2024 ATAA award.

    Past Winners

    Almond Achievement Award Winners

    2023 – Dick Cunningham

    2022 – Brian Ezell

    2021 – George Goshgarian, Sr.

    2020 – Jim Paiva

    2019 – Rob Kiss

    2018 – John Thoming

    2017 – Tony Campos

    2016 – Dave Phippen

    2015 – Jim Jasper

    2014 – Dave Baker

    2013 – Martin Pohl

    2012 – Joe Macllvaine

    2011 – Ned Ryan

    Almond Technical Achievement Award Winners

    2023 – Wes Asai

    2022 – Paul Lum

    2021 – Ken Stevenson

  • Applications Open for Almond Board Leadership Program 2025

    In 2009, Almond Board of California (ABC) set out to encourage a new group of individuals with diverse backgrounds to become leaders in the almond community. The result was the creation of the Almond Leadership Program. The yearlong program is designed to provide a mentored experience for the next generation of leaders, and includes leadership training seminars, hands-on educational opportunities, field experience and a firsthand look at the inner workings of ABC. Through the Almond Leadership Program, participants will learn how to effectively lead, manage and inspire others in the almond community; enhance business relationships; understand current social, political, scientific and economic issues facing almonds; and master communication and leadership techniques relevant to managing or retaining a leadership role in almond organizations and their local community.

    Seeking to cultivate and inspire passionate leaders for years to come, applications are now open for the 2025 Almond Leadership Program and must be received by November 22nd at 11:59 p.m.  Interviews are scheduled to take place November 25-26th AND December 3-5th.

    The program consists of approximately 110 hours of seminars and events, and 70 hours of interactive learning to complete assignments (time estimates do not include travel time). Attendance at all seminars and events is mandatory. All applicants must have reliable transportation and be available to travel to seminars and events as scheduled. Full consideration will be provided to all applicants regardless of age, gender, race or other distinguishing characteristics.

    Evaluation and Review of Applications

    A panel will evaluate completed applications. Consideration will be given to applicants who show the greatest potential to further the interests of the California almond community. Applicants will be notified to schedule a personal interview with ABC staff and other stakeholders in the Almond Leadership Program. Successful applicants will be notified by email.

    Participant Costs

    The Almond Leadership Program does not charge for participation in the program. Any costs incurred with mileage will be reimbursed at the government rate. Educational materials, meals and occasional lodging accommodations are paid for courtesy of Almond Board. Please note that participants in ALP may incur small incidental expenses associated with scheduled seminars, industry events, and special projects. These costs are the responsibility of the participant and should be paid for at the time of the event.

    Click HERE for more details and to apply for the program. For questions about the program, email Rebecca Bailey.