Applications are available for the 2026-27 Nut Growers Society Scholarship open as of Sept. 14. The scholarship supports college students involved in ag who have an interest in the nut growing industry and its future. Applicants must be current college students with at least one year remaining toward an associate or undergraduate degree. Preference will be given to Oregon residents and students pursuing ag-related fields of study. Applications are due Nov. 24. Recipients will be selected and notified Dec. 15, with funds disbursed to the college financial aid office Jan. 1. Click here to learn more.
Category: Featured Post
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September Orchard Tasks – Pistachios
Pistachio harvest ended earlier than usual this year, but growers should not stop irrigating their orchards just yet. The early finish creates a longer post-harvest period before trees enter dormancy, making proper irrigation especially important.
Research by Daniele Zaccaria, Mae Culumber and Anderson Safre of the University of California Cooperative Extension indicates that pistachio trees continue using water after the nuts have been removed. Although harvest is complete, evapotranspiration—the loss of water from the soil and through the trees’ leaves—continues until the trees become dormant.
Because the post-harvest season will be longer this year, growers should continue monitoring their orchards’ water needs. Stopping irrigation too soon could place unnecessary stress on trees as they prepare for next season.
However, the researchers suggest growers may be able to conserve water through carefully timed deficit irrigation. This practice involves applying less water than the orchard would normally use during selected periods. When managed properly, deficit irrigation may reduce water use by about 20% with little to no effect on the following year’s harvest.
The key is timing. Growers should consider orchard conditions, soil moisture and the trees’ water needs before reducing irrigation. An early harvest does not mean water use has ended, and post-harvest management can play an important role in supporting the next crop.
Read more about the research in the September issue of Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
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September Orchard Tasks – Almonds
Although almond harvest may be wrapping up, the work needed to prepare orchards for next season has already begun. Post-harvest priorities include monitoring for disease, irrigating trees, pruning and managing pests.
Brent Holtz with the University of California Cooperative Extension advises growers to watch for red leaf blotch and rust. Bright orange spots on leaves may indicate red leaf blotch, while orange and black spores can be signs of rust. This year’s warm March appears to have increased the severity of rust, making it important to avoid irrigation practices that keep orchards humid for extended periods.
However, growers should not stop irrigating altogether. Water should be applied as soon as the harvested nuts are removed from the orchard floor. Dr. David Goldhamer, emeritus irrigation specialist with UC Davis, says almond trees can use up to 11 acre-inches of water after harvest if their leaves remain active. Proper post-harvest irrigation can also help move salt below the trees’ root zone.
Growers can also begin pruning mature orchards immediately after harvest instead of waiting until dormancy. Pruning early gives wounds time to heal before rainfall, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. While studies indicate pruning does not significantly improve almond yields, it remains necessary to provide enough space for orchard equipment to pass between trees.
Fall is also a good time to manage gophers, ground squirrels and mice. Baiting or fumigation can help control ground squirrels before they enter hibernation. Growers should also look for pieces of almond shells left in tree crotches, which may indicate mouse activity.
For more information about post-harvest almond orchard management, read the full article in the September issue of Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
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This Week in Ag – September 16
California agriculture is seeing developments across several major commodities this week, from strong almond exports and an expanding citrus quarantine to concerns surrounding avocado production in Mexico.
Here are five stories to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.
Almond Market Looks Strong Heading Into 2027
The California almond industry is beginning the new crop year with strong global demand and a tighter supply outlook, according to a recent market update from Blue Diamond Growers.
August almond shipments totaled 190 million pounds, with exports accounting for 143.2 million pounds. That represents a 31% increase in exports compared with last year.
India was the standout market, receiving 44.3 million pounds of California almonds in August, up approximately 170% from 16.4 million pounds during the same month last year. Blue Diamond attributed the increase in part to stronger replenishment ahead of India’s festival season and unusually low shipments during August 2025.
Domestic shipments totaled 46.8 million pounds, down 3.3% year over year.
On the production side, the 2026 harvest began approximately two weeks earlier than last year. Nonpareil and Independence varieties are largely harvested, with pollinizer varieties following behind.
Early receipts are also pointing toward lower yields for Nonpareil and Independence compared with 2025. Combined with tighter supplies and continued export demand, Blue Diamond says current fundamentals are supporting a stable-to-firm market outlook.
HLB Quarantine Expands in Riverside and San Diego Counties
California is expanding another quarantine boundary for Huanglongbing, or HLB, as efforts continue to limit the spread of the deadly citrus disease.
Effective Sept. 11, the California Department of Food and Agriculture expanded the HLB quarantine in the Murrieta area of Riverside County and into San Diego County. The expansion includes grids 484, 499 and 510.
CDFA also expanded Asian Citrus Psyllid Bulk Citrus Regional Quarantine Zone 6 in those areas to reflect the new HLB quarantine boundary.
HLB, also known as citrus greening disease, poses a significant threat to citrus production. The Asian citrus psyllid can spread the bacterium associated with the disease from infected citrus to healthy plants.
The quarantine includes regulations governing the movement of certain citrus plants, fruit and other regulated materials in an effort to reduce the risk of further spread.
California Avocado Commission Responds to Report on Mexico’s Avocado Region
A Los Angeles Times report detailing violence and intimidation in a major avocado-producing region of Mexico is drawing attention from the California avocado industry.
The report focuses on families in San Ángel Zurumucapio, Michoacán, where avocado production has provided economic opportunities but growers and residents have also faced extortion, kidnappings and violence.
The California Avocado Commission cited the report while renewing its call for limits on Mexican avocado imports under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
The commission argues that import limits would help protect U.S. avocado growers, the domestic industry and the food supply.
The proposal represents the California Avocado Commission’s position on trade policy as it continues advocating for domestic avocado producers.
Colin O’Neil Joins Organic Trade Association Leadership
The Organic Trade Association has hired Colin O’Neil as senior vice president to lead the organization’s public affairs efforts.
O’Neil will direct legislative and regulatory work, advocacy and stakeholder engagement for the trade association, which represents organic farmers and businesses throughout North America.
His responsibilities will include initiatives aimed at reducing barriers to organic adoption, strengthening confidence in the USDA Organic seal and expanding opportunities for organic farmers and businesses.
The Organic Trade Association says the organic sector is now valued at approximately $76 billion.
O’Neil will also oversee the association’s political action committee.
Sun World International Celebrates 50 Years
Sun World International is celebrating five decades in the fresh produce industry.
The company marked its 50th anniversary during its 2026 Symposium and Field Days. Founded in 1976 by Howard Marguleas, Carl Maggio and Domenick Bianco, Sun World began as a California produce marketing company.
Over the following five decades, the company expanded into fruit genetics and licensing, with its work including the commercialization of seedless watermelon, seedless table grapes and lemons.
Sun World also recognized Board Chairman David Marguleas for 40 years of leadership and contributions to the company.
As part of the recognition, Sun World established the David Marguleas Endowed Research Fund in support of UC Davis Viticulture & Enology and dedicated the David Marguleas Tasting Room at the Sun World Center for Innovation.
Stay Connected With California Ag Network
From strong export demand for California almonds to new challenges and developments affecting citrus, avocados, organics and fresh produce, This Week in Ag brings together five stories shaping the industry each week.
For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.
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Almond Market Looks Strong Going Into 2027
The almond industry is entering the new crop year from a solid position according to a recent market update from Blue Diamond Growers. This is thanks in no small part to exports to India.
The 470.7-million-pound carry-in (of which only 447.1 million pounds is estimated as edible) is down from prior year and confirms the tightness in supply from one crop to the next. Downward pressure on crop potential and overall supply and demand fundamentals continue to support a stable-to-firm market outlook. Export demand remains healthy with the coming weeks expected to provide clarity on crop size, kernel sizing, and the degree to which rapidly appreciated pricing can be absorbed by end markets.
The 2026 crop year started on a positive note, meeting strong industry expectations. August shipments totaled 190 million pounds. Exports reached 143.2 million pounds, an increase of 31%, while the domestic market shipped 46.8 million pounds at a modest -3.3% decrease versus last year. With six of the last seven last months’ total shipments outpacing previous year, the industry continues to experience strength in global demand.
India was the clear standout in August, receiving 44.3 million pounds, up approximately 170% from 16.4 million pounds last year. The increase reflects stronger replenishment ahead of the festival season and a normalization from the unusually low August 2025 shipment level. The magnitude of the increase is notable given elevated pricing and confirms India’s continued importance as the primary outlet for California inshell almonds. Local consumption will become increasingly important ahead of festival season as buyers will begin to replenish stocks that dwindled at the end of the 2025 crop year.
August domestic shipments totaled 46.8 million pounds, down 3.3% year over year. While this may not have been the start to the year the industry had hoped for, the improvement in shipment performance over the last six months provides optimism that the market has stabilized. As prices rose over the last month, purchasing activity slowed and shifted to closer, strategic locations. This cautious approach is expected to continue. Looking ahead, domestic demand is expected to remain steady, with a pipeline of commitments providing support for shipments in the next few months.
The 2026 crop is progressing rapidly with current receipts for August coming in at 401.9 million pounds. The pacing of receipts is 55% above August 2025 due to harvest beginning approximately 2 weeks earlier than prior year. The increase in receipts over last year is not a reflection of projected crop receipts for 2026.
Nonpareil and Independence varieties are largely harvested with pollinizer varieties following closely behind. In some of the most advanced areas, growers have completed orchard harvest activities and are focusing on post-harvest practices and minimizing water stress to support next season’s crop.Current Nonpareil reject levels are the lowest in several years, though ticking up slightly, driven by a third flight of navel orangeworm. Independence rejects are trending higher than last year, mainly due to brown spot from leaf-footed plant bugs.
Yields are variable in Nonpareil and Independence depending on the region. Speculation on smaller kernel sizes coming into harvest are beginning to be realized. Yields in Nonpareil and Independence receipts are signaling a lower 2026 crop than 2025, as forecasted. There is continued downward pressure on crop potential, which will be informed by pollinizer varieties that hullers are beginning to process. Next month’s report may reflect further shifts to the forecast as pollinizer volume comes in and is accounted for. — Story contributed by Blue Diamond Growers
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The Essential Role Post Harvest Nutrition Plays in Future Yield and Quality
—Sponsored Content—
The almond and pistachio seasons have delivered a tale of contrasts. Market improvement and a near-record crop were positives for almond growers, while poor pollination, blanking and sharply lower production challenged the pistachio season.
The endurance required to finish the season should be matched by foresight in taking the right steps after harvest. The work that pays off next fall starts now. Your trees have expended tremendous energy, and an effective post-harvest nutrition program is an important part of their recovery and preparation for the season ahead.
At Redox Bio-Nutrients, our focus is helping growers get more from their nutritional programs. RAM Technology is the cornerstone of our product line and functions as a plant performance support system rather than a single product or quick fix. By supporting the natural processes plants use to manage energy, maintain balance and use available nutrition, RAM Technology helps orchards recover after harvest and prepare for the season ahead.
Here are strong building blocks to a post-harvest recharge for your orchards:
TriPlex® Zinc Flowable
- Is a rich source of L-amino acid, chelated zinc that supports plant health, yield, nutrient assimilation and essential metabolic processes.
Rx Platinum™
- Provides a comprehensive nutrient package with biostimulants that support soil health, stress resilience and root growth. This post-harvest nutritional infusion helps replenish the plant and prepare it for the season ahead.
RDX-N®
- Uses patented botanical-extract technology to support nitrogen metabolism inside the plant. By supporting the natural processes that assimilate nitrogen and convert it into amino acids and other essential compounds, RDX-N helps plants make more efficient use of available nitrogen – supporting yield potential, crop quality and overall plant performance.
BanX®
- Supports carbohydrate storage and utilization for continued plant performance. With zinc and boron, it supports cell structure, sugar metabolism, stress response and long-term orchard productivity.
These products are easy to store, blend friendly and effective at very low rates – built to fit into the operation you already run, not complicate it.
You put in the long hours, early mornings, late nights and weekend labor that got this year’s crop across the finish line. Give your orchards the recovery they’ve earned and give next season the head start it deserves. Reach out to me or your Redox agronomist today about building a post-harvest plan that positions you for success in 2027 and for years to come.
Jeremy Hamlin is an agronomist in the Southern San Joaquin Valley for Redox Bio-Nutrients. He can be reached at jeremy.hamlin@redoxgrows.com or (559)737-2334. -
Almond Award Nominations Open
The Almond Board of California honors two industry or allied industry members annually. The nomination deadline for the 2026 awards is October 9, 2026. The winner of the Almond Achievement Award and the Almond Technical Achievement Award will be announced at the Wednesday, Dec. 9 luncheon at The Almond Conference.
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.
Ross Blackburn received the 2025 Almond Achievement Award at The Almond Conference in December.
Nominate someone for the Almond Achievement Award here.
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.
Christine Gemperle was awarded the 2025 Almond Technical Achievement Award at The Almond Conference in December.
Nominate someone for the Almond Technical Achievement Award here.
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This Week In Ag – September 9
From new leadership in California wine to an expanding citrus quarantine, several developments are making news across California agriculture this week.
Here are five stories to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.
The Wonderful Company Names Chris Avery President of Wine
The Wonderful Company has named Chris Avery president of its wine business, effective Oct. 5.
Avery currently serves as CEO of Shafer Vineyards and brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the luxury wine industry. In his new position, he will oversee JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Landmark Vineyards and Lewis Cellars.
Throughout his career, Avery has also held senior positions at Darioush, DAOU Family Estates, Patrimony Estate, Opus One and Jordan Vineyard & Winery.
His experience includes operations, global sales and distribution, marketing, hospitality and direct-to-consumer business.
CAWG Launches Merchandise for California Wine Month
September is California Wine Month, and the California Association of Winegrape Growers is giving supporters a new way to celebrate.
CAWG launched a collection of California wine merchandise designed to promote the state’s wine and recognize the growers and communities behind the industry.
Proceeds from the collection will support CAWG’s ongoing advocacy efforts for California winegrape growers.
California Wine Month has been celebrated since 2004 and recognizes the state’s wines, winegrowing regions and the people behind them.
Almond Industry Award Nominations Open
The Almond Board of California is accepting nominations for two awards recognizing contributions to the California almond industry.
The Almond Achievement Award recognizes an industry member who has made a lasting impact through long-term service and commitment to California almonds.
The Almond Technical Achievement Award focuses on contributions through research, innovation or helping the industry adopt practices that benefit growers and the broader almond sector.
Nominations for the 2026 awards are due Oct. 9, with the recipients scheduled to be announced during The Almond Conference in December.
In 2025, Ross Blackburn received the Almond Achievement Award, while Christine Gemperle received the Almond Technical Achievement Award.
HLB Quarantine Expands in California
Federal and state officials are expanding quarantined areas for Huanglongbing, or HLB, in parts of California.
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is adding one square mile to the Santa Paula quarantine area in Ventura County. The expansion impacts approximately 151.7 acres of commercial citrus.
Another 10 square miles are being added to quarantined areas in Riverside and San Diego counties, impacting approximately 121.5 acres of commercial citrus.
The expansion follows positive tests for the bacterium that causes HLB from plant tissue collected at residential properties.
The quarantine and associated movement restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of HLB spreading into areas that are not currently infested.
Western United Dairies Pursues Funding for Tule Subbasin Farmers
Western United Dairies is pursuing additional federal conservation funding that could benefit farmers and agricultural land in the Tule Subbasin.
The organization submitted two proposals to USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program.
The proposals build on existing water conservation efforts and programs such as LandFlex, with the goal of bringing additional resources to dairy farmers and agricultural operations in the region.
Water availability and groundwater sustainability remain significant issues for agricultural operations throughout the Central Valley, making programs that support conservation and water management increasingly important for producers.
Stay Connected with California Ag Network
From wine and almonds to citrus, dairy and water, This Week in Ag brings together five stories impacting California agriculture each week.
For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.
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Mike Forbes Named CEO of American Pistachio Growers
American Pistachio Growers (APG) announced the appointment of Mike Forbes as its new President and CEO, assuming the role on Sept. 1. Forbes brings more than two decades of leadership experience across the food, consumer products and wellness industries. Throughout his career, he has helped build purpose-driven brands, accelerate growth and lead organizations through periods of transformation while maintaining a strong focus on consumers, innovation and sustainability.
“We are excited to welcome Mike Forbes as the next President and CEO of American Pistachio Growers,” said APG Board Chairman Justin Wylie. “Mike brings exceptional leadership experience, strong strategic judgment, and a genuine appreciation for the growers and industry he will represent. The Board believes he is the right person to build on APG’s strong foundation, expand opportunities for American pistachios, and lead the organization into its next chapter of growth.”
A Wisconsin native with agricultural roots, Forbes grew up in 4-H and comes from a family of farmers. After beginning his career with McKinsey & Company, he held leadership roles at Jim Beam, Procter & Gamble and General Mills before a personal health journey inspired him to focus his career on food and wellness.
That passion led him to California Olive Ranch, where he spent nearly a decade helping grow the business from less than $10 million to more than $100 million in annual revenue while advancing to Executive Vice President of the Consumer Business.
Forbes went on to serve as CEO of Alter Eco, leading the organic chocolate company through a successful turnaround centered on regenerative agriculture. He later held executive leadership roles with Safely, MaryRuth Organics, and The Vitamin Shoppe, where he helped drive growth, expand retail partnerships, and strengthen consumer and digital businesses.
“I am so excited to join APG and its family of growers and processors, and it’s an honor to work alongside such a world-class group of people who are deeply committed to this industry,” said Forbes. “Pistachios are an incredible crop, and nobody grows them better than American farmers. They’re one of nature’s perfect snacks, delivering outstanding flavor along with tremendous health benefits. APG has a long record of success, and I can’t wait to get started, meet our members, and help build on that momentum as we continue growing demand for American pistachios around the world.”
Forbes holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with Honors from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and an MBA from Harvard Business School. As President and CEO, Forbes will lead APG’s efforts to advance the interests of American pistachio growers and processors, strengthen domestic and international demand, and continue promoting the nutritional, economic and environmental benefits of American-grown pistachios. — Story contributed by American Pistachio Growers
