Pacific Nut Producer Magazine

Tag: Almond Alliance

  • California Almond Industry Reaches Record Sales with Opportunities for Worldwide Market Growth

    While tariffs and other trade barriers remain a high concern, the California almond industry has been experiencing record sales growth and shipments worldwide.  The Almond Board of California (ABC) remains optimistic for both the near and longterm future of the industry, continuing investments in new market development and research on new ways for consumers to enjoy this nutrient-dense product. Watch this video as ABC CEO Clarice Turner provides insight on what almond growers and marketers can anticipate with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network as shared at the recent annual Convention of the Almond Alliance of California.

    Please thank this video’s sponsor SQM Specialty Plant Nutrition for their industry support.

  • Almond Alliance Announces Alexi Rodriguez as New CEO

    The Almond Alliance is proud to announce the appointment of Alexi Rodriguez as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2025. With a distinguished career in the almond industry and a deep commitment to agricultural advocacy, Rodriguez will lead the Alliance into its next chapter of growth.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Alexi Rodriguez as the next CEO of the Almond Alliance,” said Blake Vann, Chair of the Almond Alliance. “Her proven leadership and deep understanding of the almond industry make her the ideal choice to guide our organization into the future. Alexi has been a steadfast advocate for the industry and we are confident that under her leadership the Almond Alliance will continue to thrive and champion the interests of our members.”

    Rodriguez brings over 15 years of experience in the industry, having served in various high-impact positions, including Chair for the Almond Board of California (ABC) and Director of Operations for Campos Brothers Farms. Her leadership has driven strategic growth, operational efficiency, and innovation across the industry. Beyond her operational roles, Rodriguez has strongly advocated for the almond industry on regulatory and compliance matters.

    “I’m excited and honored to be selected to lead the Almond Alliance,” said Alexi Rodriguez. “I’m looking forward to utilizing my knowledge and experience to advocate for this great industry and connect with industry members as we navigate the challenges ahead.”

    Rodriguez’s appointment follows an extensive search process, underscoring the Almond Alliance’s commitment to finding a leader who embodies the organization’s vision and values. Her leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategies to strengthen the Alliance’s role as the voice of American almonds. Rodriguez is uniquely positioned to lead the Almond Alliance as it continues to promote the interests of its members and drive the industry toward a sustainable and prosperous future.

    Alexi being interview by Pacific Nut Producer Editor Matthew Malcolm while serving as Chair of the Almond Board of California

    About the Almond Alliance
    Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture.

    Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org.

  • Steve Koretoff & Flory Industries Named Almond Alliance Members of the Year

    At its annual convention held this year in Lihue, Hawaii, the Almond Alliance recognized an exceptional business (Flory Industries) and individual (Steve Koretoff) as its 2023/2024 Members of the Year.

    Flory Industries has been an integral part of Central California agriculture since 1936 and has been selected as the Associate Member of the Year. Flory Industries’ expertise and support of almond industry advocacy have reinforced the company’s position as an essential contributor to the industry’s growth and success.

    “Flory Industries’ deep roots in Central California agriculture and their commitment to innovation have made them a vital partner in the almond industry,” said Aubrey Bettencourt, outgoing President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. “Their increased activity within the Almond Alliance has amplified advocacy efforts and strengthened the industry’s voice.”

    Flory Industries was awarded Associate Member of the Year at the 2024. Left to Right: Blake Vann, Chairman of the Almond Alliance; Jason Flory, CEO of Flory Industries; Todd Wille, COO of Flory Industries; and Katie Staack, Vice Chair of the Almond Alliance.

    In recognition of his contributions to the almond industry and the Alliance, Steve Koretoff was awarded the Member of the Year. Grower, processor, and handler Koretoff marks the second generation at Purity Organics and has completed his second term as Secretary of the Almond Alliance. Through his dedication and strong moral character, he has contributed calm wisdom to the leadership of the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors, the Grower Committee, and the greater almond community.

    “Steve embodies the essence of excellence in our almond community,” Bettencourt said. “His unwavering commitment to the industry and remarkable leadership as Secretary of the Almond Alliance has not only earned him this prestigious honor but has also left an indelible mark on our collective journey.”

    About the Almond Alliance
    Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture. As the voice of almonds, the Alliance represents the fourth-largest commodity in the United States and the third-largest American export.

    Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org.

  • Almond Alliance Celebrates as WIC Expands Food Offerings to Include Almond-Based Alternatives

    In response to persistent advocacy efforts initiated in October 2022 and a formal request filed in February 2023, the Almond Alliance is celebrating the inclusion of almond-based dairy alternatives and the authorization of nut and seed butters as alternatives to peanut butter in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

    This marks an important milestone in promoting nutrition security, maternal and child health, and enhancing dietary options. Based on science-based recommendations from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025, the Biden Administration’s finalized updates reflect a progressive approach to addressing dietary restrictions, accommodating allergies, and promoting nutrient density. As a source of choline, iron, and protein for pregnant mothers, as well as iron and zinc for infants and toddlers, almonds have been demonstrated to be healthy for growth and development.

    WIC’s enhancements not only provide access to vital nutrients but also foster inclusivity by catering to diverse dietary preferences and needs,” said Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. “Our team is delighted to see almond-based dairy alternatives offered as lactose-free alternatives and as a means of promoting choice within the category. Further, the inclusion of nut and seed butters as substitutes for peanut butter demonstrates a commitment to addressing food allergies while providing nutritious alternatives.”

    The Almond Alliance applauds Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack for championing these participant-driven changes for WIC, which not only improve access to essential nutrients but also uphold the values of equity and choice. As a result of the inclusion of almond products in the WIC food packages, participants are now able to enjoy enhanced flexibility and cater to their diverse food needs, further enhancing their health and well-being.

    As the Almond Alliance celebrates these victories, it reaffirms its commitment to advocating for innovative solutions within the agricultural and nutritional landscape that promote health, sustainability, and inclusivity.

    About the Almond Alliance
    Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture. As the voice of almonds, the Alliance represents the fourth-largest commodity in the United States and the third-largest American export.

    Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org

  • Almond Alliance Announces Leadership Transition

    Today, the Almond Alliance Board of Directors announced that our esteemed President and CEO, Aubrey Bettencourt, will be leaving the organization after nearly three years of dedicated service.

    “As President of the Almond Alliance, Aubrey showed exceptional vision and commitment, guiding us through a period of significant growth and accomplishments,” said Blake Vann, Chairman of the Almond Alliance. “Her leadership has yielded results for its members and the almond industry as a whole – and under her guidance, the Alliance has established itself in a position of influence. We are incredibly grateful for her contributions and unwavering dedication to the success of the California almond industry.”

    During Aubrey’s tenure, the Alliance’s advocacy grew exponentially, retaining permanent representation in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento. Communications was a top priority for Aubrey, as she developed a comprehensive communications platform to better inform and engage membership, political officials, and the general public. In addition to facilitating the Almond Express’ transport strategy during the supply chain crisis, she navigated crop insurance reforms and disaster assistance, and she led the development of DWR’s LandFlex program, which provided $25M to growers for groundwater recharge and SGMA compliance. Additionally, she established the Almond Alliance Foundation, which received a $2 million CDFA grant for the Pollinator Alliance to support pollinator health by expanding pollinator habitats on working almond farms.

    In a reflection on her time with the Alliance, Bettencourt noted: “Over the past two and a half years, the Almond Alliance has achieved its goal—it has established itself in a position of influence in the almond industry and agriculture throughout the nation. Today, it is regarded as a highly successful, effective, and member-focused advocacy organization. A leading advocate for the almond industry and the voice of American almonds, the Alliance delivers results for its members and the industry. I am so very proud of this team, and have full confidence in our ongoing work for this incredible industry and community.”

    We are excited to announce an extensive search for the next President & CEO is underway. We are looking for a dynamic and proven leader who displays strategic vision, organizational development, and a passion for American agriculture. As leader of the Alliance, this individual will ensure the continued strength and leadership of American almonds and advocate for the entire almond community – growers, hullers, processors, and consumers.

    “We are confident that a strong pool of candidates will emerge, and we look forward to choosing a leader who will build upon this foundation,” Vann concluded.

    Aubrey’s invaluable contributions to the Alliance and the almond community are greatly appreciated. We wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.

    We will provide updates on the search for the next President/CEO as they become available.

    About the Almond Alliance
    Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture. As the voice of almonds, the Alliance represents the fourth-largest commodity in the United States and the third-largest American export.

    Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org

  • LandFlex Succeeds as an Incentivizing Farmer-Driven Solution for SGMA Compliance

    Permanently retiring millions of acres of productive California farmland is not a solution the growing world population needs right now.  That is why a new program, known as LandFlex was created, providing an alternative solution to assist farmers in meeting the requirements of SGMA. Millions of dollars of LandFlex funding have recently been awarded to serve farmers within critically overdrafted basins of California.  Watch this video with Anja Raudabaugh, CEO Western United Dairies, to learn more about the success of the program.

    Please thank this video’s sponsor afimilk for their industry support.

  • DWR LandFlex Team Awarded Almond Champion of the Year Award

    Almond Alliance has announced the LandFlex team at the Department of Water Resources as their 2023 Champions of the Year. They are being honored for their leadership and partnership in developing the LandFlex program, which has emerged as a proactive and versatile solution safeguarding rural drinking water systems, increasing groundwater sustainability, and bolstering climate resilience.

    “The Almond Alliance is proud to give the Champion of the Year Award for the bold and creative leadership of this agency and team, who joined us in finding innovative solutions to a drought and flood crisis that was hurting our communities and our businesses,” said Mike Curry, chairman of the Almond Alliance. “Through voluntary collaboration and innovative on-the-ground strategies, LandFlex exemplifies the potential of community-driven initiatives to achieve meaningful and impactful results. We thank DWR, Director Nemeth, and the LandFlex team for their dedication to helping keep farmers farming and protecting our rural communities in California.”

    The Almond Champion of the Year Award is presented annually to those who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership in education, coalition building, partnerships, and promoting legislation and policies encouraging the advancement and protection of California agriculture and the California almond industry. The award recipient is decided on by our Government Relations committee members. Committee members include:

    • Mike Curry, Johnson Farms
    • Dick Cunningham, Cunningham Ranch Inc.
    • Blake Vann, Vann Brothers
    • Jeannine Grech, Campos Brothers Farms
    • Alicia Rockwell, Blue Diamond Growers
    • Dave Phippen, Travaille & Phippen
    • Melissa Frank, The Wonderful Company
    • Steve Van Duyn, Van Duyn Family Farms
    • Todd Meyer, Bear Republic Nut
    • Bill Lyons, Mapes Ranch
    • Sebastian Silvera, Gladstone Farms
    • Taj Samran, Hilltop Ranch

    Past recipients of this award include Assemblymember Adam Gray, Assemblymember Heath Flora, Connie Conway, former USDA State Executive Director of Farm Service Agency, Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua, and CDFA Undersecretary Christie Birdsong.

    The award will be presented by the Almond Alliance at the California Almond Industry Political Action Committee’s Annual Modesto Fundraiser at Del Rio Country Club on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 5:30 pm. This event brings together members of the almond community as well as FFA students, elected officials, and designated special guests.

    RSVPs can be made to Annie Romero at aromero@almondalliance.org or 209-300-7140.

    About the Almond Alliance
    Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture. As the voice of almonds, the Alliance represents the fourth-largest commodity in the United States and the third-largest American export.

  • LandFlex Program Awards $16 Million in Farmer Contracts, Providing Immediate Well Protection for 34,000 Homes

    The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has announced the successful conclusion of LandFlex Phase 2, providing $16,775,162 in grants to support grower contracts within various Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) for the protection of rural at-risk water systems and advancements in groundwater sustainability.

    The awarded funds will be allocated to three GSAs as follows:

    Lower Tule Irrigation District GSA: Grant award in the amount of $7.7 million
    Pixley Irrigation District GSA: Grant award in the amount of $ 5 million
    Westlands Water District GSA: Grant award in the amount of $4 million
    “At the heart of LandFlex‘s success is its proven effectiveness in addressing critical water resource challenges,” said Anja Raudabaugh, Chief Executive Officer of Western United Dairies. “Initially designed to combat drought conditions, the program has demonstrated remarkable versatility by also proving its mettle in flood protection and identifying active recharge potential. This adaptability has positioned LandFlex as an innovative and indispensable tool for growers to meet sustainability goals in both dry and wet periods.”

    One of the program’s key achievements is the immediate protection it provides to drinking water wells serving 34,259 households in underserved communities. By swiftly reducing water demand, LandFlex alleviates pressure on these communities and overburdened water systems while simultaneously supporting the sustainability of both the communities and the agricultural industry.

    Moreover, LandFlex plays a pivotal role in accelerating compliance with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). Growers who participate in the program can plan ahead and explore innovative farming methods that align with long-term sustainability goals, ensuring the resilience of water systems and critical water infrastructure.

    “LandFlex owes its success to the voluntary participation of growers who are committed to supporting their communities and farming for the future,” said Aubrey Bettencourt, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Almond Alliance. “The program was oversubscribed, and their active involvement showcases their determination to find immediate solutions rather than waiting until 2040 to achieve sustainability goals. By participating in LandFlex, these growers contribute significantly to the well-being of underserved communities and the long-term resilience of at-risk water systems while investing in new farming practices to ensure California agriculture is leading and vibrant for the 21st century.”

    The LandFlex program stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between growers, government entities, and local communities. By focusing on the protection of water resources and underserved communities, LandFlexexemplifies the importance of finding innovative, practical, and actionable solutions to address pressing water challenges.

    For more information about LandFlex, please visit landflex.org.

    About the Almond Alliance
    Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture. Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org.

  • Governor Newsom Unveils Infrastructure Package to Secure California’s Global Leadership and Promote Economic Prosperity

    Urgent action is required to maintain California’s position as a global socio-economic leader. Governor Gavin Newsom has unveiled a comprehensive Infrastructure Package designed to address critical challenges, including meeting climate goals, improving the electric grid, enhancing water resilience, and modernizing transportation infrastructure.

    The Infrastructure Package is not merely about building infrastructure; it is about fostering progress and economic prosperity in our communities,” said Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance. “By investing in sustainable water supply and efficient supply chains, the Infrastructure Package aims to ensure a thriving future for California.

    “California’s water infrastructure was constructed 55 years ago when the population was less than half of what it is today. Unfortunately, the repercussions of this outdated system are evident today, with one million Californians lacking access to clean drinking water, hundreds of thousands of agricultural acres lying fallow, and specific fish populations dwindling.”

    Bettencourt continued, “The Infrastructure Package presents an opportunity to establish a resilient water management system that benefits everyone, people, farmers, and the environment.

    “The transportation infrastructure plays a crucial role in facilitating the movement of agricultural products, such as almonds, for export. Improving highways, roads, rail transportation, intermodal facilities, and port infrastructure will enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance California’s competitiveness in global markets.

    “Streamlining permitting processes and reducing red tape is a key aspects of the Infrastructure Package. These reforms will save time and money for taxpayers, businesses, and local governments, creating a more efficient project planning and approval system.”

    About the Almond Alliance
    Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture. As the voice of almonds, the Alliance represents the fourth-largest commodity in the United States and the third-largest American export.

    Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org

  • Groundwater Sustainably and Protection of Vulnerable Domestic Wells

    The California Department of Water Resources, Western United Dairies Foundation, Almond Alliance, Self-Help Enterprises, and the Community Alliance with Family Farmers have introduced LandFlex. This solutions-based program assists vulnerable communities in solving the groundwater crisis related to the drought by protecting domestic wells through preventative fallowing, relieving supply pressures, and providing water supply certainty to critically over-drafted basins.

    “Farmers, underrepresented communities and Groundwater Sustainability Agencies share a common interest in the immediate ending of groundwater overdraft on lands near vulnerable drinking water wells,” said Anja Raudabaugh, Chief Executive Officer of Western United Dairies. “The LandFlex program is a pilot program providing farmers the flexibility to manage their land through the drought and to provide water security for rural communities.”

    The LandFlex program reduces groundwater demand by contracting with farmers to rotationally and temporarily fallow ground in areas deeply dependent on groundwater for domestic well supplies. The price paid per acre-foot of water savings is prioritized based on the enrolled lands’ proximity to domestic wells coupled with the lands’ existing subsidence levels. A crop’s evapotranspiration will be based on local average GSA data.

    “LandFlex provides during a fallowing and drought crisis to conserve and leave water in the ground to stabilize aquifers and allow our farmers to stay in operation and have operating capital on a voluntary and annual basis while supporting our communities and ensuring a secure food supply for next year,” said Aubrey Bettencourt, Chief Executive Officer of the Almond Alliance.

    Grant awards will be prioritized on lands experiencing the most severe subsidence due to groundwater depletion and on areas closest to domestic wells that have recently gone dry.

    For more information on LandFlex, and to sign up for program updates, visit: https://landflex.org