Almonds on Parade! Meet Your New Board Director Protein Powder

NEWS, VIEWS, AND INDUSTRY INSIGHT JANUARY– FEBRUARY 2020

Almonds Protein Powder Meet Your New on Parade! Launch Board Director

Contents JAN–FEB 2020

8 FIELD TEAM 10 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL 16 CULTIVATING SUSTAINABILITY 20 CORNERING THE MARKET 24 ADVOCACY REPORT 28 GROWING THE GOODNESS 30 IN YOUR ORCHARD 50 CLASSIFIED ADS Features 6 President’s Corner 20 Blue Diamond Unveils New Almond President and CEO Mark Jansen shares what we Protein Powder have to look forward to in this new year and new Blue Diamond’s first new major product of 2020 decade, including the celebration of the co-op’s showcases the latest innovation offering consumers protein 110th anniversary. powder made with 100 percent pure almond protein.

14 Almonds on Parade 28 Meet Your New District 8 Board Director For the second year in a row, Blue Diamond brought its As a fifth generation farmer and third generation almond almond growing history to the life in the Rose Parade, grower, being part of the Blue Diamond family has been held New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California. memorable for Matthew Efird and his family.

ON THE COVER: Blue Diamond growers represented the co-op and Almond Breeze brand at the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California.

OFFICERS Mark Jansen, President and CEO Dean LaVallee, Chief Financial Officer

ALMOND FACTS STAFF Samantha DeMelo, Managing Editor Mel Machado, Contributing Photographer Gray Allen, Advertising Sales 916.783.4334 & 916.765.3234

Blue Diamond, the world’s largest processor and marketer of almonds, exports to over 100 countries.

Almond Facts, established in 1922, is published bimonthly by Blue Diamond Growers, 1802 C Street, Sacramento, California 95811, phone: 916.442.0771. Address all correspondence to the Editor, Almond Facts, P.O. Box 1768, Sacramento, California 95812. Advertising subscription rates provided upon request.

Blue Diamond is a registered trademark and marketing brand of Blue Diamond Growers. Other registered trademarks are The Almond People, Smokehouse, Golden State, Celebration, From the Valleys of California, Confetti and Almond Facts.

Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication. Blue Diamond reserves the right to refuse advertising. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. ©Blue Diamond Growers 2020

AlmondFacts.com BlueDiamond.com EXPERTS IN AG. EXPERTS IN FINANCING.

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A New Year, A New Decade

Happy New Year! It is the beginning of a new decade and continued optimism for Blue Diamond Growers. In 2020, we also celebrate the co-op’s 110th anniversary. It all started on May 6, 1910, with nine local organizations coming together to form the California Almond Growers Exchange. This was just the beginning. Now, the co-op is known around the world as Blue Diamond Growers and our brands stand for progress and innovation.

2020 is also my 10th year serving as your Given that this a particularly meaningful decade Mark Jansen President & CEO President and CEO. As I reflect on the past for Blue Diamond, I had the opportunity to sit decade, I’m proud of the results achieved by down with Ag Council of California President your Blue Diamond team. It is a privilege to Emily Rooney for a taping of their Capitol have had stewardship over a team that has Farm Connection podcast and share many demonstrated ever-increasing capability and great stories about our co-op. We discussed a desire to succeed in support of our growers. Blue Diamond’s long-term goals and what The Blue Diamond team has changed over the drives our commitment to be a growth business. years, but we’ve established a great system This guided the conversation to innovation, that fosters pride and collaboration amongst expansion of our facilities, global markets, and our team members. This system is moving our our leadership in the industry. The partnership business to the next level. between Blue Diamond and the Ag Council is more than 100 years strong, so I was honored For the upcoming year, we have established for this experience. goals that will continue to set our cooperative apart from the rest of the almond industry. Our As I hope you can see, we are excited to commitment to delivering industry-leading returns make this next decade the best one yet for is always a driving goal. We are also committed Blue Diamond Growers. Our 1,700 team to growing our brands, building on existing members come in each day knowing and strengths, and expanding into new markets for appreciating that they work for the most Blue Diamond. We aim to grow our sales of dedicated and innovative almond growers the value-added manufactured almond market in California. On behalf of our team, I wish through our almond ingredient sales and to you a happy, healthy, and successful 2020. expand our innovative product offerings, both We look forward to the future with every in the United States and abroad. For example, expectation that The Best is Yet to Come! take our launch of Blue Diamond® Almonds Protein Powder. This versatile product sets a new standard for consumers who are seeking delicious, plant-based products. By showcasing the benefits of almonds in innovative ways, we are building Blue Diamond’s reputation in the industry and Mark Jansen growing the demand for our products. President & CEO

6 ALMOND FACTS To hear Mark’s entire interview, visit the Ag Council’s Website at www.agcouncil.org/capitol-farm-connection-podcast NEWS INFIELD A NUTSHELL TEAM

Regional Managers

Mel Machado Tim Sanchez Christine Ivory KC Stone Director, Member Relations Colusa, Yolo, Solano, Tehama, Glenn, and Butte San Joaquin County East of Austin Rd, Cell: 209.531.6352 Yuba and Sutter Counties Counties South of Hwy 4, North of Stanislaus River; Stanislaus County South of Tuolumne River, Salida: 209.545.6222 Cell: 530.338.6440 Cell: 530.518.9109 [email protected] tsanchez bdgrowers.com West of Hwy 99 and East of San Joaquin @ [email protected] River; Merced County, North of Merced River, West of Hwy 99 Cell: 209.596.5375 [email protected]

Brian Noeller Justin Elam Ernie Reichmuth Mike Griffin Stanislaus County South of Merced County from the San Joaquin County West of Southern Madera County South Tuolumne River, East of Hwy 99; Merced River to Hwy 140 San Joaquin River, South of of Avenue 18-1/2; Northern Fresno Merced County East of Hwy 99, Cell: 209.303.7306 Patterson; Merced County County North of Highway 180 South of Westside/Bellevue North of Westside/Bellevue Road [email protected] Cell: 559.779.6400 Road; Madera County North mgriffin bdgrowers.com Cell: 209.417.2010 of Avenue 18-1/2 @ [email protected] Cell: 559.474.2996 [email protected]

Other Inquiries

Michael Grindstaff Matt Willson Salida Membership Dept. Central Fresno County between Southern Tulare County, Phone: 209.545.6225 Highway 180 and Kamm Avenue South of Lindsay Highway; Fax: 209.545.6215 Kern County Cell: 559.470.9731 Sacramento Membership Dept. [email protected] Cell: 559.554.4118 [email protected] Phone: 916.446.8368

8 ALMOND FACTS 2020 Grower Liaison LEGEND DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 Chairman Gregory Watts Ron Tadlock Vice-Chairman Lyle Livingston Catherine L. Cain Ex-Officio Rick Pittenger Ronald Timothy Director Brian Erickson Analee Lauwerijssen Appointed (Member-at-Large) Fred Montgomery Charlie Marsh Almond Board Alternate Daniel Varner Zach Dennis Almond Board Director Greg Overton Leo LaGrande Almond Board Vice Chair Kevin Borror Sabrina Blickle Kevin Davis Michael F. Doherty John Nock Kelli Evans Raymond Antonowich Jim Peart Darren Rice Brook Bachmann Dan Cummings John Monroe W. Howard Isom Elaine Rominger P. Samantha Lewis Gerald Rominger Cathy Marsh

DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 Joe Rishwain Lance Ioppini Michael Van Groningen Bob Holmes Stephen Schmiedt Nick Alta Garret Mussi Paul Adrian Kathy Thomsen Herman Doornenbal Steve Stanful Tom Christensen Clayton Bogetti Karen Javete Jim Thoming Jr. Jason Dole Michael M. Petz Will Drost Lloyd Van Dyken Wesley John Eisenga For Grower Liaison Bruce Oosterkamp Robin Giuntoli contact information, please Mike Bogetti Joe Gasper contact your regional manager. Dale Van Groningen Kevin Fondse John Thoming ’09 Kenneth Roos Greg Kamper

DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 9 Nick Blom Greg Reichmuth Mario Bandoni George Goshgarian Jr. Thom Gruber Gordon Heinrich Rick Alvernaz Scott Abraham Paramjit Singh Craig Fulwyler Jeff Erickson Allen Peterson Galen K. Miyamoto Joey Biscay Jeff Parsons Brum DeVisser Patrick Romero Joe Sansoni Norman Pretzer Gurcharan Dhillon Brandon Riddle Dirk Van Konynenburg Daniel L. Clendenin Bruce Chapman Ben Wilson Mark Giannini David Richmond John Pereira Gary Thompson Karam Guron Dennis Bowers John Hack Rodney Voumard Baljit Boparai Jason Dhillon Neil Jolliff Scott Long David Passadori Tom Chandler Ryan Clark Jack Hoekstra Richard Gemperle Jim Snyder David Massaro David Snell Sonny Johns David M Genzoli Victor Yamamoto Jerry Rai John Allen Sid Miller Paul Lara Bobby Deol Anthony Basila Don Davis Gary Darpinian Darryl Starn Kevin Hall Dan Wattenbarger Chris Vandborg Stephen Van Duyn Charles Crivelli III Dan Mendenhall Matthew Efird Kent Stenderup Neil Van Duyn Steve Vilas Robert J. Weimer Aldo Sansoni Clinton Shick Bill Brush ’02 Rick Scoto Ranbir Grewal Kyle Balakian Tim A. Viera

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 9 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

BLUE DIAMOND INVESTMENT PROGRAMS Current Investment Rate available as of January 1, 2020 Blue Diamond Growers offers members Short-Term Investment short-term investment programs. Certificate (STIC)

The objective of this program is to serve as a competitive Initial Investment $1,000 investment alternative for our members and provide Blue Required Diamond Growers with a steady source of funds. The interest rate available as of January 1, 2020, for the program is listed below, Interest Rate 2.50% rate subject to change:

For more information, contact your local Regional Manager, or Member Services at (209) 545-6225.

This summary does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to purchase investment certificates. We will provide a package of documents for the programs to those members who are California residents and who express an interest in participating in the program.

Former Blue Diamond Field Supervisor Honored

For over thirty years, Rob Kiss served the Blue Diamond growers in southern Stanislaus and northern Merced counties. He also spent more than half of those years also dedicated to the almond industry serving on a handful of Almond Board committees. To honor Rob’s years of dedication, the Almond Board honored him with the 2019 Almond Achievement Award at their annual conference in Sacramento.

“In his roles [serving as a member of ABC committees], he reviewed and recommended research proposals essential to the ABC program of work. As a licensed PCA, Rob brought many years of field experience to the role, seeking practical solutions to the challenges growers face during the year,” said Mel Machado, Director of Member Relations for Blue Diamond Growers, who nominated Kiss.

In addition to representing growers, Rob found the time to write Almond Facts ’ Time to Consider column, where he was able to share new research results to keep California’s growers fully informed. Even after retirement from Blue Diamond, he continues to contribute to the industry working at Bayer Crop Science.

10 ALMOND FACTS Blue Diamond Welcomes Young Leader Class of 2020

The co-op kicked off the year with a new class taking part in 2020 Young Leader Program. It was an amazing two days learning about Blue Diamond’s operations and the importance of legislative advocacy. The involvement and active participation of this class — the largest in the history of the program — made this first session extremely valuable. The class also had the special opportunity to visit the floor of the Assembly, a first for the program, with Assemblymember Jim Cooper and Assemblymember Heath Flora. Agricultural Liaison Bill Lyons and State Water Resources Control Board member DeeDee D’Adamo met with the group to discuss the critical state issues affecting the agriculture. Blue Diamond prides itself on preparing the next generation to lead the co-op and represent the industry through our Young Leader Program.

CO-JACK Rodent Control System

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JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 11 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Dark Chocolate Truffles Recipe Courtesy of The Fitnessista Cook Time: 75 minutes Serves: up to 12

Ingredients Directions • 11/2 bars of your favorite dark chocolate (approx. 5.25 oz) 1. In a double-boiler, melt the • 1/3 cup Almond Breeze® Original (or for extra creaminess use chocolate until smooth. Stir in Almond Breeze® Almondmilk Cashewmilk Blend Original) the almondmilk, vanilla, and sea salt, and whisk well until • 1 teaspoon vanilla smooth. Remove from heat • Pinch of sea salt and add the butter or coconut • 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter (vegan option: coconut oil) oil. Stir to combine. • Almond butter; for filling (optional) 2. Spoon the mixture into a silicone chocolate mold. You can add a little almond butter as a filling here if you'd like. Place in the fridge to harden, about 1 hour. 3. Gently remove from the mold and sprinkle with your favorite toppings like shredded coconut, cocoa powder, dark chocolate almonds with toasted coconut flakes, or edible glitter. 4. Store in the fridge.

12 ALMOND FACTS FORTIFIED THAT’S HOW ALMONDS FEEL WITH MOVENTO.® Movento® insecticide is the only foliar application with downward movement within the tree to protect roots by suppressing nematodes. With Movento, trees will show improved vigor and produce high yields year after year.

For more information, contact your retailer or Bayer representative or visit www.Movento.us.

© 2020 Bayer Group. Always read and follow label instructions. Bayer, the Bayer Cross, and Movento are registered trademarks of the Bayer Group. Not all products are registered for use in all states. For additional product information, call toll-free 1-866-99-BAYER (1-866-992-2937) or visit our website at www.CropScience.Bayer.us. Bayer CropScience LP, 800 North Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63167. CR0319MOVENTB045S00R0

BCS_MOV_M9_2434_AF_O.indd Saved at 1-2-2020 1:21 PM Printed At None Client Bayer Media Type Magazine DEPARTMENT: Studio Director Account Manager Studio Artist Copy Editor Production Live 7” x 10” Trim 8.5” x 11” APPROVAL: Bleed 8.75” x 11.25” Job Title CY20 Movento Print Resizes Pubs Almond Facts Addl. Notes: 12/1 insertion Ad Code None NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Almonds on Parade! Blue Diamond Participates in Rose Parade®

For the second year in a row, Blue Diamond brought its over 20,000 California-grown roses and flowers, and almond growing history to life in the Rose Parade®, held weighed approximately 45,000 pounds. New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California. Thank you to the six grower families who represented Blue Diamond’s Rose Parade® float featured Almond the co-op and the Almond Breeze® brand on the float: Breeze® Almondmilk as the headlining Blue Diamond • Wesley Eisenga & Alexandra Nussey product. The float showed how the co-op’s legacy of quality came into existence from the first seed planted • The de Visser Family in California’s rich soil, to the bloom of the expansive, • The Valk Family vibrant orchards, to the creation of the creamy, delicious • Kelli Evans & Tim Taylor almondmilk made with the best almonds. • The Doherty Family The Blue Diamond Almond Breeze® float highlighted • The Clendenin Family the generations of growers who have passed on their pioneering spirit, commitment to quality, and love of sharing their craft to their families. The float was decorated with more than 300 pounds of almonds and

14 ALMOND FACTS Photos of Almond Growing Brings Orchards to Office Walls

In some Blue Diamond offices, almond trees are always in bloom. In others, you can expect to witness wonders of the harvest. Thanks to Mel Machado, Blue Diamond’s Director of Member Relations, office walls are decorated with photos showing iconic almond growing moments. The stunning photography is especially important to Blue Diamond team members as they tell the story of the almond lifecycle. We had a chance to capture Mel in the field with his camera and can’t wait to see what his eye catches next.

Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 15 CULTIVATING SUSTAINABILITY

Recommendations for Bees Pollinating Almonds

With almond bloom around the corner it’s important to remember how regular orchard management tasks can affect honey bees. The following are some Best Management Practices that should be considered for bees pollinating almonds. The honey bee is a small creature, and attention to the small details regarding their health and safety have a significant impact on their ability to pollinate effectively.

Communication Growers should communicate with all parties that are involved with pollination. Proper communication will certainly include the beekeeper who is providing the colonies but might also include a bee broker, pest control adviser (PCA) and certified pesticide applicator (CPA). California county agricultural commissioners also the discussion going. A pollination contract template play a vital role in the communication chain between can be found at the Project Apis m. website at growers and beekeeper. All colonies are required to be www.ProjectApism.org. registered with each county agricultural commissioner upon arrival in that county. Pesticide Applications Caution should be taken when applying crop protection The best way to register colonies is by using the products when bees are present. Always read labels and Bee Where program. This web-based program offers follow directions. Do not use pesticides with cautions on beekeepers a dynamic, real-time geographic information the label that read “highly toxic to bees,” “toxic to bees,” system (GIS) where they can mark colonies with a pin “residual times” or “extended residual toxicity.” Avoid drop in the orchard via a mobile app. Bee Where is applying any insecticide during bloom. If a fungicide useful to growers because their notice of intent (NOI) application is necessary, spray in the evening or at night for material applications allows each county agricultural when bees and pollen are not present. Adjuvants should commissioner to notify each beekeeper in the area not be used with fungicides unless stated on the label. 1 which allows them the opportunity to move their colonies.

Proper communication helps both grower and beekeeper Water achieve successful pollination while reducing risk to Bees require access to water in order to regulate hive honey bee colonies and the almonds they pollinate. temperatures in the heat. Standing water on orchard Starting before bloom, growers and beekeepers should floors may be contaminated with pesticides which are agree upon average frame count per colony, date and harmful to bees. Bees accessing other water sources location of placement and removal, inspection protocol, like neighboring pools/fountains may create a nuisance. and payment terms. A contract is a good way to get Providing water is an important and easy step to safely and effectively manage bees pollinating almonds and

16 ALMOND FACTS 10 premier rootstocks Introduced the top 4 out of 6 almond varieties Largest selection of almond varieties 30% of the almond industry’s annual revenue generated by almond varieties introduced by Burchell

Burchell Nursery has the largest selection of almond varieties, the most rootstock options and the distinction of having the only In-house Nut Breeding Program focused exclusively on nut varieties. We have a choice of Vlach or RX1 clonal walnut rootstocks still available for 2020. CALL 800-828-TREE, stop by the Oakdale or Fresno o ce or visit burchellnursery.com NOW for the best selection of walnuts for 2020 or for all your orchard needs in 2021. ©

burchellnursery.com 800 828-TREE

Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication. CULTIVATING SUSTAINABILITY

avoid complaints from neighbors. Place water near Just as almond growers are finding it increasingly difficult hives as soon as they arrive and use new containers to get reliably strong colonies, beekeepers are facing or ones that have been thoroughly cleaned out. A greater challenges to keep their hives alive. Varroa mites proper “landing” area is essential for successful water and loss of habitat/poor nutrition are two of the biggest collection, so bees don’t drown. This can be achieved health threats honey bees face in modern beekeeping. with floating cork, marbles, leaves, grass, or straw. For To help mitigate other stressors to their bees, beekeepers buckets or drums, most commercial beekeepers use often look for orchards with supplemental sources of burlap. Burlap, fastened by clothespins, is draped over forage for their bees. Planting cover crops that will bloom the sides allowing water to wick up the sides. Change before and after almonds can help growers attract high- out water if it has been contaminated with pesticides or quality beekeepers with healthy hives. Some beekeepers looks unclean. The recommended rate of water is about even give growers a discounted rental rate for hives if a half-gallon for each hive for the duration of pollination, there is access to supplemental sources of food. which is roughly equal to one 55-gallon drum for every 100 hives or, one 5-gallon bucket for every 10 hives. References: 1. Almond Board of California. Honey Bee Best Management Bee Nutrition / Forage Practices For California Almonds. Modesto, CA. Many producers use cover crops to help them achieve www.almonds.com/sites/default/files/ALM_189395_ HBBrochure_ForWebsite_8_5x11_F5.pdf their goals of improving soil quality, pollinator health and economic viability. Growers that plant alternative 2. Niño, Elina (2016-2017) Longitudinal Evaluation of Honey sources of nutrition like blooming cover crops before Bee Colonies on Different Forage Regimes. Almond Board and during the bloom of their cash crop do so to create of California Annual Research Report a positive feedback loop within the hive. This positive feedback loop helps ensure healthy and more bees for pollination. As pollen is brought back to the hive, the queen lays eggs. In three days, the eggs hatch into larvae. The immature larvae that beekeepers call “brood” secretes a pheromone that drives adult foragers to go find more protein, in the form of pollen. Billy Synk, The smell of the brood pheromone is the hive’s way Director of Pollination Programs, Project Apis m. of communicating the urgency in which bees need to [email protected] collect resources to support the next generation of bees. Preliminary results from an Almond Board of California funded study conducted by Dr. Elina Niño measures the solid stainless staples impact Seeds for Bees cover crops in or near almond • 6", 8" and 10" Length 2 For Safe and Secure Drip orchards has on colonies. She found that hives in orchards Line Placement • Grade 316L with access to the PAm Mustard Mix were on average Resists Corrosion from Acidic Water & Fertilizers three frames more populous than hives without access to in All Soil Types • Reduce Labor One Time Install supplemental forage. Planting bee forage cover crops is compared to Using Plain or Coated Staples a great way to get more brood pheromone in the hives • Save Money Avoid Constant Hose & Fitting Repairs you rent for pollination, giving them a boost before the MADE IN USA bloom and increasing foraging behavior (pollination). Sales: Jennifer (661) 746-6242 payne Machine & Fabrication llc [email protected] (661) 203-5544

18 ALMOND FACTS Clean Plants For Your Future

Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication. CORNERING THE MARKET

Blue Diamond Unveils New Almond Protein Powder

Blue Diamond’s first new major product of 2020 Protein Powder supports a holistic approach to well-being showcases the latest innovation offering consumers 100 to make people feel great inside and out. percent pure almond protein. Blue Diamond Almond® The co-op has been committed to showcasing the Protein Powder launched exclusively through Amazon and benefits of almonds in innovative ways and our goal is comes in three flavors — Dark Chocolate, Vanilla, and to set a new standard for clean, healthy, plant-based Unsweetened. Each serving has 20 grams of protein and products. Blue Diamond Almond® Protein Powder doesn’t is made with: use masking ingredients like other protein powders, giving • 100% pure almond protein it a pure and clean taste. The extra-fine texture is smooth enough for any application. • Five simple ingredients or less Blue Diamond Almond® Protein Powder is available • No artificial flavors for purchase on Amazon at www.amazon.com/Blue- • No added sugar Diamond-Almonds-Protein-Vanilla/dp/B083F86RCQ, Blue Diamond’s online store at bluediamondstore.com, and at Its versatility gives consumers the option to enjoy a Blue Diamond’s three California-based retail Nut & Gift variety of wholesome, plant-based foods like smoothies, Shops located in Sacramento, Chico, and Salida. oatmeal, and baked goods. Blue Diamond Almond®

Plant-based options have increased significantly in recent years and many companies, both big and small, are innovating fast to capture consumer interest and retailer acceptance. As leaders in almond innovation, Blue Diamond is elevating the focus of our innovation agenda to continue bringing the benefits of almonds in new and exciting ways. — Maya Erwin, Vice President of Innovation for Blue Diamond Growers

20 ALMOND FACTS Building International Markets

In Japan, Blue Diamond launched a new Almond Breeze® 180g can. This exciting innovation was developed in partnership with our Japanese licensee partner Pokka Sapporo. The product was launched across Pokka Sapporo’s vast network of vending machines in Japan and is intended to be dispensed warm in the winter months and chilled in the summer months. Vending machines are commonplace in Japan, especially in areas with high foot traffic such as near train stations where they provide a convenient way to purchase beverages and snacks. Blue Diamond has also secured listings of the can in major local retailers such as Natural Lawson and AEON. Since its launch, this new product has been a significant contributor to Japan’s Almond Breeze® business, and Pokka Sapporo is aiming to expand its distribution further to capitalize on the momentum generated so far.

Blue Diamond also launched a new range of snack nuts in Brazil in partnership with Enova Foods, one of the leading salty snacks companies in the country. The range comes in 30g and 90g pack sizes in six flavors including Whole Natural, Wasabi & Soy Sauce, Roasted Salted, Salt & Vinegar, Smokehouse, and Honey Roasted. The range is currently listed in several major outlets in Brazil including Saint Marche, Verdemar, Muffato, and Mundial. While these flavors are known and loved in the U.S., Blue Diamond’s unique flavor options are new to Brazil and rarely seen in nuts in general. To support the launch, Blue Diamond partnered with Heineken at Mondial de la Biere, a major beer festival which takes place in Rio de Janeiro each year. At the event, the six flavors were paired with artisanal beer at the Beer Institute of Brazil booth. We also promoted the range in trade magazines and through sampling activities in several stores in the States of Sao Paulo, Minas Gerais and Parana.

Almond Breeze® Introduces Newest Flavor of Creamer

Almond Breeze® is turning every cup of coffee into a delicious, sweet and creamy experience with its newest flavor of almondmilk creamer, Sweet Crème. With a hint of vanilla and just the right amount of sweetness, and 15 calories per serving, it’s your coffee’s new best friend. Sweet Crème launched nationwide in January and joins its other flavor offerings of Vanilla and Unsweetened.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 21 Make your next move your best move. Protecting against almond bloom diseases. To beat an opponent that is constantly evolving, you need a strategic game plan – one that capitalizes on your enemy’s weaknesses and forti es your orchard against whatever move bloom diseases make. Get proactive with Scala® at pink bud and follow with Luna® at bloom through post-bloom to counter when diseases are strongest. Together, you have a game plan for effective resistance management and bloom disease protection for a winning season.

Learn more at LunaScalaGamePlan.com.

© 2019 Bayer Group. Always read and follow label instructions. Bayer, the Bayer Cross, Luna, and Scala are registered trademarks of the Bayer Group. Not all products are registered for use in all states. For additional product information, call toll-free 1-866-99-BAYER (1-866-992-2937) or visit our website at www.CropScience.Bayer.us. Bayer CropScience LP, 800 North Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63167. CR0919MULTIPB004S00R0

Option 1

BCS_LUN_M9_2429_AlmFacts_R2.indd Saved at 9-19-2019 3:14 PM Printed At None Client Bayer Media Type Magazine DEPARTMENT: Art Director Copywriter Acct. Manager Studio Artist Proofreader Traffic Production Live 7” x 10” Trim 8.5” x 11” APPROVAL: Bleed 8.75” x 11.25” Job Title CY20 Luna Almond Game Plan Print Addl. Notes: None Pubs Almond Facts Ad Code None They may be unseen, but they shouldn’t go unnoticed.

Nematodes are the invisible threat to almond orchards. Protect your crops from nematode damage with Velum® One.

Protection from wide-spectrum 58% average increase in canopy nematode damage. diameter in newly planted trees.2

Can increase yield 8.3% with an Convenient in-season application average of $475/bearing acre.1 via chemigation.

For more information, visit www.VelumOne.com.

1 Pro t increase based on 2017 almond price/lb. and average yield/bearing acres with 8.3% increase in yield versus untreated over three-year trial, per trial data of ve locations with a single application of Velum One at 6.5 or 6.85 . oz./A.

2 Velum One applied at 6.5 oz./A, spring 2017, via drip irrigation. Trees planted in January 2017. Increase in green canopy pixels based on an average of two rows of untreated trees compared to an average of two rows of Velum One-treated trees.

© 2019 Bayer Group. Always read and follow label instructions. Bayer, the Bayer Cross, and Velum are registered trademarks of the Bayer Group. Not all products are registered for use in all states. For additional product information, call toll-free 1-866-99-BAYER (1-866-992-2937) or visit our website at www.CropScience.Bayer.us. Bayer CropScience LP, 800 North Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63167. CR0119VELONEB034S00R0

BCS_VEL_M9_2275_VelumOne-AlmondFacts_O.indd Saved at 3-4-2019 10:14 AM Printed At None Client Bayer Media Type Magazine DEPARTMENT: Art Director Copywriter Acct. Manager Studio Artist Proofreader Traffic Production Live 7” x 10” Trim 8.5” x 11” APPROVAL: Bleed 8.75” x 11.25” Job Title 2019 Velum Print Production Pubs Almond Facts Addl. Notes: None Ad Code None ADVOCACY REPORT

As we enter 2020, there are several issues, both issues to watch, including negotiations on Phase Two within our nation and internationally, of importance of the China and U.S. agreement and the progress of to California agriculture and to the almond industry. the agriculture labor legislation in the Senate. Below are Currently, Washington, D.C. is consumed with both the the highlights of the top issues facing the almond industry impeachment and ongoing developments with Iran, which in 2020. continue to impact and influence everything that unfolds in the nation’s capital. Moreover, this is an election year, USMCA which always interjects additional uncertainty into the President Trump’s signature trade policy initiative, the policymaking process. USMCA, promises a more secure future in trade between Continuing at an ever-steady pace, the almond market the United States and its two closest neighbors. Increased is projected to grow by $4.3 billion this year. Almonds and secure access to these two markets will be critical to remain California’s largest agricultural export and one almond growers, particularly as trade with other global of the country’s top export commodities, making trade markets continues to be unpredictable. policy a very important aspect of our industry’s continued The Senate passed the USMCA on January 16, after a growth. The status of various trade negotiations remains bi-partisan majority voted in favor of the agreement in a top concern. There are other regulatory and legislative the House in December 2019. USMCA is expected to

24 ALMOND FACTS be signed by the President, and will go into effect as important importer of California almonds. This market soon as both Mexico and Canada grant final approval. has been affected by the retaliatory tariffs India imposed This will signify a hard-fought victory for both the on U.S. almonds. The United States is waiting for India Administration and the California almond industry. to respond to an initial proposal set forth in the current negotiation and USTR indicates that the Administration Immigration Reform hopes progress will be made in 2020. Progress has also been made on agriculture labor reform. California Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren’s bi-partisan agriculture labor bill passed in the House in December Fan-Jet® 2019. This bill, which is now being considered in the Senate, Microsprinklers will continue to take a lot of time and work. Senators Feinstein and Tillis are the key leaders in the Senate. Add a Fan-Jet® line Securing passage of a practical solution to attracting and to existing dual line drip maintaining a legal, agricultural workforce for farmers in California and across America remains a top priority.

China President Trump signed the Phase One agreement with China at the White House on January 15. China agreed to purchase $200 billion worth of American goods in an effort to close the trade imbalance with the U.S. Although the tariffs remain, this is an important step towards solidifying a fair agreement benefitting U.S. agricultural exports, including almonds. It is important to know that United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Gregg Doud publicly mentioned almonds specifically as a purchase covered in the Phase One agreement with China. The Administration expects to begin the next round Precision Rain - Rain when you want it, of talks on the Phase Two portion of the agreement with where you want it. China in 2020. Frost Protection - Fan-Jets can help provide frost protection by raising the ambient temperature by 2-3 degrees. Japan Fan-Jets will allow you to push salts away The trade agreement with Japan went into effect January 1, from the root zone. 2020. Much like the agreement with China, Phase Two American Made American Owned negotiations will begin later this year, but the initial phase Tell your dealer you want Fan-Jets. will reduce tariffs on U.S. almonds to match that for other countries covered under Japan’s existing trade agreements.

India Tell your dealer you want Fan-Jets. Negotiations with India will continue into 2020. Although Quality & Trust Since 1974 Contact us at 1-800-BOWSMITH India lost their GSP benefits in 2019, they remain an Quality & Trust Since 1974 or www.bowsmith.com

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 25 ADVOCACY REPORT

European Union and Brexit The European Union (EU) remains a challenging trade partner for U.S. agriculture because of its refusal to include agriculture on the trade talk agenda. A further complication in the negotiations between the U.S. and the EU is Brexit. Both President Trump and Prime Minister Johnson have shown intense interest in negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), although the EU will remain the United Kingdom’s (UK) closest trade partner. The UK has also said that it will continue to follow the EU’s food safety rules, which will make an agreement with the U.S. difficult. The UK is set to leave the EU by the end of the year after Rooted in innovation... which, there will be potential for an FTA.

A Focus on Other Trade Issues Plan Today for During 2020, the Administration will also focus on several other trade issues to open markets for U.S. products, including almonds. In addition to the UK, the U.S. will continue efforts to improve the FTA Tomorrow’s with Israel, which would include improving market access for almonds. Additional FTA’s are also being considered with Vietnam, Brazil, the Philippines, Taiwan, orchard Thailand, and potentially one or more We have high quality stock of almonds, apricots, countries in Africa. cherries, nectarines, peaches, European and Issues important to our industry will Asian Pear, and fresh and dried plums! continue to arise in 2020, including EPA regulations and water concerns. Order Early for The regulatory and legislative docket 2020 & 2021 will be monitored closely for such developments.

Call Us Today! (800) 675-6075 www.FowlerNurseries.com Newcastle, CA Blue Diamond Advocate Julian Heron, Partner, Tuttle Taylor & Heron Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication.

26 ALMOND FACTS Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 27 GROWING THE GOODNESS

Meet Your New District 8 Board Director Matthew Efird

Being part of the Blue Diamond family has been memorable for Matthew Efird and his family. As a fifth generation farmer and third generation almond grower, one of his childhood memories was watching his family participate in the filming of the co-op’s “Can A Week” advertisement. “That experience left a lasting impression as I joined Blue Diamond soon after planting my first almond orchard in 2007 at the age of 30,” said Efird. He’s since been in a strong advocate of the cooperative encouraging several other growers to join.

Matthew manages his family’s over 100-year-old farm in the Caruthers, Riverdale, Raisin City, and Kingsburg areas of Fresno County. After graduating from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 1999, Efird returned to the family operation, Double E Farms Inc., to partner with his father Russel. Together, they operate their 1,200-acre diversified farm of almonds, walnuts, raisins, processing peaches, and pistachios. Matthew also manages an additional 1,100 acres of tree nuts.

He is president of the commercial operations division and staff, it must also have a qualified and dedicated of the farm, Efird Ag Enterprises Inc. Efird Ag has been board of directors to provide direction and oversight for commercially harvesting and transporting almonds and the organization.” walnuts since 1999. In 2005, Efird Ag purchased the first Matthew is a graduate of the California Ag Leadership of three Flory Pow’r-Track Shredders, a no till orchard Program (Class 45) and serves as the president of the shredder designed to process annual orchard prunings Fresno County Farm Bureau. He also serves on the into a fine mulch that decomposes prior to the following Industry Advisory Council for the California Farm Bureau harvest. In addition to servicing all of the harvesting needs Federation and represents the energy interests of small for Double E Farms Inc., Efird Ag harvested 1,800 acres to medium size agriculture operations at the California and shook over 5,000 acres of almonds and walnuts, Public Utilities Commission by serving as treasurer of the transported 44 million field pounds (920 loads) of Agricultural Energy Consumers Association. Matthew also almonds, and shredded over 40,000 acres this past year. serves as the secretary of Central California Almond Becoming a board director is a position Matthew Growers Association, a grower-owned cooperative that looks forward to. “I believe that Blue Diamond ’s strength has grown to be the single largest almond huller/sheller comes from its member-owners, strong branding, and in the world. cooperative model,” remarked Efird. “I also believe that Matthew and his wife Kelsey, live near Kingsburg with a successful cooperative is more than talented leadership their two young boys, Jameson and Jenson.

28 ALMOND FACTS

IN YOUR ORCHARD

THE BEE BOX

The Year of Communication

What a year! In 2019, the Bee Informed Partnership (BIP) kept growing, both in team members as in the data we are collecting. BIP is a non-profit organization built from the need to centralize honey bee health data to get insights into honey bee health and help improve colony survival. We are collecting data, from surveys and field samples, to provide information about honey bee health back to beekeepers to help them make informed decisions in a timely fashion. We are data driven, and we believe in sharing our data while protecting the privacy of our respondents (you can access anonymized results on our research portal).

In January last year, we vowed to make 2019 the “year of data.” We were excited about the different streams of honey bee health data coming together and how we were starting to make sense of it all to answer questions that beekeepers care about. Looking back, we are proud of what we accomplished, as a team and with the support of our participating beekeepers.

Here are a Few Highlights of the Year in Numbers: The honey bee colony health information BIP collects is archived in our database, now the largest repository of bee health metrics in the United States. With inspection notes, lab results, survey entries, hive scale readings and more, it represents over 1,700 MB of data, with on average 456 new records every day. View the interactive version: research.beeinformed.org/ bip-database-overview/

We collect various data types: samples taken from the field, which can be tested for different pests and diseases, including the pernicious Varroa mites, viral targets, as well as pesticides. Each of those samples are typically accompanied by field observations (such as colony size, queen status, brood pattern for example). More and more, those might also include management history of the colony.

A relatively recent stream of data concerns sensor data, such as hive scales. Multiple brands of hive scales are marketed as “BIP-ready” in that they have the potential to be directly linked to our database so as to share the recorded information with our network in real-time. Participants can see their data, and anonymized data from other participants as comparison, to help them identify honey flows and consumption rates.

30 ALMOND FACTS As of mid-November, over 14,000 and help conduct research trials. active monitoring is essential to the new inspection records were added Those six specialists service over success of operations, and help our to the database in 2019. Most 100 commercial beekeepers from participants make informed decisions were collected by our Tech Teams 17 different states. Altogether, those based on objective data. servicing commercial beekeepers. commercial beekeeper members of Compared to the National Honey The Sentinel program, aimed mainly our program own over 17 percent of Bee Disease Survey (funded by at smaller scale beekeepers, U.S. honey bee colonies. We’re also APHIS), Tech Team members show represented a steady stream of working closely with approximately reduced loads of Varroa mites all information that amounted to over 15 20 queen breeders, particularly in though the year, and particularly percent of our records. Finally, trials California. in the fall. The NHBS sample and contract work performed by BIP In 2019, the Tech Teams performed beekeepers from most U.S. states to added up to another 10 percent of over 9,800 in-field Varroa alcohol monitor for potentially new invasive the records. washes, which allows them to diseases, and is also used as a The Tech Teams are often described provide same-day reporting of baseline of disease loads in U.S. as our “boots on the ground.” They Varroa load to the beekeeper. operations, both commercial and work with commercial beekeepers as Our Tech Teams typically monitor small scale. in-field consultants and can perform, operations four times a year, According to the BIP Loss and among others, colony inspections, at critical times, such as before Management Survey, over the winter diagnostics and disease monitoring, and after treatment, to judge its 2018–2019, 40 beekeepers reporting hygienic testing, emergency visits effectiveness. We believe that

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 31 IN YOUR ORCHARD

participation in Tech Team lost 22.1 percent of their colonies, an 11.5 point difference to the 33.6 percent loss rates of nonparticipating sideliners and commercial beekeepers. We like to believe BIP’s insistent nagging to monitor at critical times is at least partly responsible for those differences.

In 2019, our Tech Teams started to record field observations through an app, developed in-house by our IT team, which directly uploads inspection notes to our database, skipping the paper datasheets. This helped reduce the time of data processing considerably, increase consistency and reduce the risk of errors due to re-typing.

Finally, 2019 marked a new concerted effort to promote BIP as a source of replicable field data. Thanks to our field and lab specialists and the support of our participating beekeepers, we are able to offer help to research institutions by coordinating their field studies. Ensuring high standards in relevant realistic conditions, we are effectively bridging the gap between scientists and beekeepers.

32 ALMOND FACTS JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 33 IN YOUR ORCHARD

BIP is also pursuing its own funding for research projects. In the last year alone, BIP team submitted 31 funding requests to various foundations and grant committees, both to support continuing projects and to push forward into new ways to provide meaningful data to all stakeholders.

In addition, in-house, BIP continues to address questions that matters to beekeepers. This year, we have conducted case studies and trials answering the following questions:

• Impact of dose on Apivar effectiveness to control for Varroa mites

• Improvement in hygienic behavior over time from active selection

• Difference in precision and accuracy between monitoring methods:

o Alcohol wash in field vs in lab o Alcohol wash vs Mite Drop

See some on our one-pagers that summarize those trials on our brand new website at www.beeinformed.org. More to come!

Looking Ahead to an Exciting 2020 We are forever pushing ourselves to bring more timely, relevant and actionable data to our beekeepers to inform their management decisions. Here are a few projects we will be working on in 2020.

Emerging Issues In 2019, BIP developed its chain of action in response to emergency calls from beekeepers. After a first assessment from our Tech Transfer specialists, ambiguous cases are transferred to our Necropsy Committee, composed of expert researchers in a variety of apicultural fields, to try and elucidate the potential causes to the cases documented. With funding allocated to emerging issues, we hope to be able to apply new molecular techniques to investigate cases appearing and developing rapidly.

34 ALMOND FACTS JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 35 IN YOUR ORCHARD

Mobile App Our app is used by our Tech Team when collecting samples in the field. We want to expand it to beekeepers everywhere to encourage them to take inspection and monitoring notes.

GIS work BIP is collaborating with Auburn University to hire a Master Student who will investigate the impact of extreme weather event on colony mortality.

New and Improved Reports Our report is more than data. It should convey information, in a clear and intuitive way. It should provide context. It should be meaningful. We have come a long way since the start of our reporting system, and we thought it is high time we give it a make-over.

2019 also saw some changes in our team. We have grown our Tech Teams with the hires of two new specialists, Nelson and Matt, in Minnesota and California respectively. Last but not least, our beloved Founding Director, Karen Rennich has passed the reins to BIP’s new dynamic Executive Director, Annette “Net” Meredith, who will lead BIP into the next phase, starting with a strategic plan. Stay tuned for much more to come on Net and BIP’s direction. Karen Rennich, BIP’s Founding Executive Annette “Net” Meredith, BIP’s New Director Executive Director We would like to express our immense gratitude to Karen Rennich for building such a great organization, and gathering and leading such passionate individuals who will continue the work and build on her vision. We are also grateful for the trust our participants have placed in us, and we are excited to announce our commitment to make 2020 the year of communication.

Anne Marie Fauvel, Nathalie Steinhauer, Tech Transfer Team Coordinator, Science Coordinator, The Bee Informed Partnership The Bee Informed Partnership

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TIME TO CONSIDER

Reservoir levels look good, the market is strong. Careful steps in January and February should set growers up for the best possible production for the coming year. Top priorities at this time include orchard sanitation for navel orangeworm management, quality bee rental/care, frost protection, and selection/timing/delivery of bloom fungicides.

Dormant Pest Management The key practice for dormant/delayed dormant timing inoculum is also part of an integrated program for this pest management is orchard sanitation; destroying old nuts disease that is most damaging to Fritz variety, but can also (“mummies”) that are overwintering sites and spring housing hit Nonpareil, Butte, Carmel, and Price. Winter sanitation, a for navel orangeworm (NOW), the key pest of almonds dormant copper spray, and one to two copper/mancozeb in California. Mummy nuts are also a major source of sprays early in the season ahead of rain and warmer bacterial spot inoculum and their removal and destruction temperatures provide the most effective management program is an important part of integrated management of this for this relatively new problem in California almond orchards. disease. The traditional target has been two mummies per Pre-bloom is also a great time to put down a preemergent tree, but recent data analysis using extensive, detailed herbicide for extended weed control. Consult with your information from Kern County recommends one mummy for PCA about preemergent herbicide selection to match the every five trees and four or less mummies on the ground age of the block and target weeds. under each tree. Good weed control is particularly important in young Sanitation timing is important. Knock mummies from the orchards, where the lack of shade plus added water and trees (shaker and/or hand pole) by mid-January. Research fertilizer intended for the trees can grow a “great” crop in the 1980s reported no loss in yield if mummy removal of weeds. The right preemergent materials can offer long was done as late as January 31. Then blow, sweep/ residual weed control. The other option is repeated post- window and then grind up mummies with a mower by emergent applications that need to go on at the right times March 1. Check behind the mower to make sure all with a lot of care in application to avoid damaging young mummies were broken up by the mower. If not, slow down trees. White paint (50/50 paint to water) did not provide the tractor speed until the mummies are destroyed. Just trunk protection (2nd leaf trees) from high rates of post- getting the mummies on the ground is not enough. emergent applications in a recent University of California Dormant is a good time for certain insect and/or disease (UC) study. See the whole report from this work at ucanr. management, if needed. Use orchard pest history and/ edu/blogs/UCDWeedScience/blogfiles/64033_original. or dormant spur or shoot sampling to check for scale, png. The healthiest trees in this study were those with solid, European red/brown almond mite eggs and scab lesions. new trunk protectors. How-to info and how to interpret the results at ipm.ucanr. Controlling weeds in the tree row also helps keep voles edu/agriculture/almond/San-Jose-Scale and click on the (meadow mice) from invading the block and damaging or link to “Dormant Spur Sampling.” killing trees. The worst cases of vole damage I’ve seen A dormant application of copper to reduce bacterial spot were in young blocks where growers were unable to get

38 ALMOND FACTS

IN YOUR ORCHARD

in with post-emergent herbicides due to wet spring weather. They eventually killed the vegetation, but the dead weeds provided good vole habitat. The dead weeds had to be raked out the next fall to allow preemergent herbicides to reach the soil.

Before spraying preemergent herbicides, make sure old, dead weeds and leaves are removed. The old organic matter ties up the herbicide and reduces weed control.

Final pest management note: Pre-bloom (dormant or delayed dormant) spraying does not provide any control of NOW or spider mites. The NOW overwinter inside the mummies and can’t be reached by pesticides, and the spider mites overwinter deep in bark cracks on the trunk or in the soil near the tree base and are likewise protected from pesticides. Spraying for these key pests before spring is a waste of time and money.

Pollination Good bee activity in an orchard is essential to setting a good crop. This means renting strong hives, caring for the hives and bees while in the orchard, and avoiding spray timings and materials that could harm the bees and their brood. You have heard this before, but it is worth repeating as this is the foundation of successful almond growing in California.

Hive detailsTGSV-Blade20154.5x5FINAL.pdf are important to the best 1 12/12/14possible 2:42bee PMactivity in the orchard. A strong hive should contain at least eight healthy frames. A healthy frame is greater than 75 percent covered with bees on both sides of the frame of comb or four bees per square inch of GET EVERY NUT frame. An 8-frame hive is two to three times more active in pollen collection (pollination) than a four frame hive. Pollination contracts should be written to include hive strength details. Bee brokers,

C knowledgeable third parties, can be

M hired to confirm hive strength. More

Y bees are needed in cold, wet weather

CM compared with warm, dry conditions.

MY UC recommends at least two strong

CY hives (minimum of eight frames) for good

CMY bloom conditions and three strong hives

K for poor bloom weather (cold and wet). The New Schmeiser V-Blade Roller combines all the advantages of a durable V-Blade with a Rear Roller to provide groove-free Hive placement is important for even smoothing and reduced loose dirt at the row ends. pollinization across the orchards. Place Contact us for complete details. hive drops no further apart than a quarter Because every nut counts! of a mile for blocks larger than 40 acres. Placing hives further apart can result in less pollinization of the flowers more than ZZZWJVFKPHLVHUFRP an eighth of a mile from any hives. Place

40 ALMOND FACTS hives where morning sun can warm the hive and flooding is not a concern. In dry bloom weather, place water stations in the orchard for bees. Consult with your beekeeper about water station options. Bees drink standing, so they will need some way to walk to the water.

Protect bees from bloom sprays. Bees cost roughly $400 per acre and are critical to setting a good crop. Here are some recommended “do’s” and “don’ts” to help bees do the best job possible. Adding any insecticide (except B.t.), adjuvants, or nutrients can harm adult bees and the brood in the hives. Avoid using these materials at bloom. There are other times to use nutrients or insecticides. A well-calibrated spray job shouldn’t benefit from an adjuvant at bloom. Do not directly spray hives with anything (herbicide, fungicide, insecticide, nutrients), period. Time fungicide spraying until mid-afternoon. The pollen released each morning should be stripped from the flowers by that time with good bee activity. To tell if pollen is “gone for the day” watch to see if pollen- harvesting bees (the ones with the yellow pollen packed on their back legs) are only doing “touch and go” landings in flowers and not working them over to pick up pollen. The key point is to avoid contaminating pollen with spray material, pollen that will be carried back to the hive and fed to the brood. Clean, healthy pollen is critical to the hive health. See links to Almond Board of California’s honey bee best management practices at www.almonds.com.

Bloom Protection Flowers should be protected from disease with one or two fungicide sprays unless conditions are unusually dry (no dew). Since it is hard to guarantee no dew and the stakes are so high, at least one bloom spray is recommended by Dr. Jim Adaskaveg, UC Riverside Professor

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 41 IN YOUR ORCHARD

of Plant Pathology. Bloom weather dictates the number of sprays. If dry weather is forecast for bloom, apply a single spray at 30–40 percent bloom, making sure that at least one locally systemic fungicide (FRAC 3, 9, and/or 11) is used. The Fungicide Resistance Action Committee (FRAC) groups different fungicide chemistries by mode of action on fungal pathogens. If rain is in the forecast, two applications — one at “pink bud” and another at full bloom are recommended for the best disease control. If warm, wet weather is in the forecast, use at least one fungicide FOR EVERY PHASE OF NUT PRODUCTION... effective on anthracnose should be included in both sprays. If the forecast is for wet and cool to WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! cold, anthracnose should not be a concern, but jacket rot becomes a major concern for the full Eligible for the LOW-DUST bloom spray. Nut Harvester Replacement Program by the San Joaquin Note: FRAC 3 fungicides (Tilt, Indar, Valley Air Pollution Control District Quash, Tebucon, etc.) are effective HARVESTERS SELF-PROPELLED on jacket rot and should not be the only fungicide used in wet, cool SWEEPERS CARTS weather. For materials, timings and disease issues, check pages 31–32 in the Fungicides, Bactericides and Biologicals for Deciduous Tree Fruit, Nut, Strawberry and Vine Crops from the UC IPM. Visit ipm.ucanr. edu/agriculture and look at the bottom of the page under “More Information” for the download link.

Bacterial blast has caused CONDITIONERS LOW-DUST CONDITIONERS significant crop loss in the last several years in some orchards. E-CABS SPRAYERS R.O.P.S. Cold and wet weather from bud Certified break through bloom is believed to be the most important factor predisposing flowers to bacterial blast. In particular, frost is linked to damage by this bacterial CALL US pest, which is commonly most FOR MORE INFO, TO SCHEDULE PLEASE VISIT severe low in trees and/or in YOUR HARVEST EXACTCORP.COM lower areas of the orchard where DEMOS OR CALL coldest temperatures occur. Frost 209.544.8600 protection helps reduce blast

42 ALMOND FACTS damage. Recent research by Dr. Adaskaveg has shown the antibiotic kasugamycin (Kasumin ®) to be very effective on blast and registration is pending with a Section 18 emergency registration requested for spring, 2020. Biological materials such as Actinovate AG and Botector reduced blast damage in Dr. Adaskaveg’s research in cherry, but not as consistently and effectively as kasugamycin.

Bloom Protection Timing and Material Selection Varies with Weather

Elevated Disease Risks and Fungicide Bloom Weather Forecast Spray Timings Selection Considerations FRAC 3,9, and/or 11 (locally systemic Clear skies 1x; 30-40% bloom fungicides) Warm rain 2x; pink bud and full bloom Brown rot and anthracnose Jacket rot, blossom blast. [FRAC 3 Cold rain 2x; pink bud and full bloom fungicides ineffective on jacket rot.]

Frost Protection Irrigation systems and orchard floors should be prepared for frost management. Bare or close mowed, firm and moist orchard floors provide warmer conditions than those with tall vegetation. If freezing temperatures are forecast, and impact or micro-sprinklers available for active frost protection, water should go “on” when the wet bulb temperature is above the critical temperature for the stage of crop development in the orchard. Turn off sprinklers when wet bulb temperature rises above the critical temperature.

Why worry about wet bulb temperatures? All critical temperatures reported by UC are wet bulb temperatures. All field thermometers are dry bulb devices. If relative humidity (RH) is less than 100 percent, irrigating for frost “protection” will result in evaporative cooling of the orchard until wet bulb temperature is reached and possible crop damage. For example, critical temperature for 25 percent loss of Nonpareil nutlets (post-petal fall) is 29 degrees Fahrenheit. If dry bulb temperature is 33 degrees Fahrenheit and RH is 60 percent, orchard temperature will drop to 29 degrees Fahrenheit if irrigation sprinklers are turned on. Knowing critical and wet bulb temperatures are vital to effective frost protection. Hand held weather stations and/ or sling psychrometers can be used to determine wet bulb temperatures. These tools are also helpful in the summer to determine when the air is too dry for effective spraying and spraying stopped or droplet size increased. If current, field dry bulb temperature and relative humidity data are available, national weather service has a free online wet bulb calculator at: weather.gov/epz/wxcalc_rh. When using the online tool, assume barometric pressure of 1013 millibars — that’s what UC tables use.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 43 IN YOUR ORCHARD

Bad Branch Angle Good Branch Angle

For detailed information on frost control, including later or watering with a pressurized probe. For extensive tables for critical temperatures and bloom stage see information on care of a new orchard, view UCANR’s sacvalleyorchards.com/almonds/horticulture/frost- New Orchard Handbook (ccfruitandnuts.ucanr.edu/ protection-2. Additional valuable resources include files/238596.pdf) developed by Dr. Katherine Jarvis-Shean, those at biomet.ucdavis.edu/index.php/frost-protection- UCCE Tree Crop Advisor in Sac/Solano/Yolo region. mainmenu-33. Pruning Planting Good scaffold selection in the first dormant season for Proper planting is critical to orchard health and success. spring planted trees (bareroot or potted) is critical for Some important points in planting a bareroot orchard long-term orchard performance. Make sure pruning crews are as follows. Planting holes should be large enough to can identify a “bad” branch angle with occluded bark accept the nursery tree without having to jam the tree and cut out that branch (see photos for good and bad down into hole to make it fit and producing a J-rooted branch angles). tree. Tree roots should be planted pointing downwards. Protect pruning wounds, especially in young blocks Building a mound in the center of the planting hole helps where relatively big cuts, close to the trunk are commonly with directing roots downwards, especially if the holes made, with fungicide immediately after pruning if rain is have been dug with an auger as soil often falls back in to in the forecast. In recent UC trials by Leslie Holland, Ph.D. the hole around the sides after the auger is pulled out. If candidate in Dr. Trouillas lab at UC Kearney, Topsin-M ® holes are dug with an auger on finer textures soils (loams, consistently delivered the best reduction in wound clay loams, etc.), make sure the sides of the hole are infection in almonds. roughed up with a shovel to remove auger “glaze.” Finally, irrigate the trees immediately after planting — even when the soil is wet. This will help settle the soil around the bare Fertilization roots or the potting media. Experienced growers swear Pre-bloom is a key time for nitrogen (N) planning. The by tanking with a hose the day of planting vs tanking annual target N rate for an orchard should be set before

44 ALMOND FACTS buds start to move and applications planned for the season. Almonds remove 68 pounds of N per 1,000 pounds of kernel crop (hulls, shells, and kernels) from the orchard at harvest. For planning purposes, multiply (68 pounds per 1,000 pound) by average kernel crop yield from a block to get expected average crop N use in that orchard. Adjust that number upwards to account for inefficiency of soil application (divide expected crop N use by 0.70 to 0.80) and you have a target fertilizer budget for the year if no other sources of N inputs. “Other” sources of N include irrigation water nitrate-N, so include nitrate in the irrigation water analysis this spring/summer so N from this source can be used in the Complete Line of Quality N budget. For every one ppm Nut Harvesting Equipment NO3-N in an irrigation water source, there are 2.7 pounds N per acre foot. Reduction in Magnum X Harvester fertilizer N rate due to irrigation nitrate levels will be most significant when ET is highest — late spring and summer.

Boron (0.2 to 0.4 pound actual boron per acre) at pink bud in 2020 may increase nut set if hull boron analysis from 2019 shows a need and a fall spray wasn’t applied. However, check with your beekeeper before applying as boron may be harmful to bees. Fewer Self-Propelled Harvesters Dr. Patrick Brown, UC Davis Plant Moving Parts Sciences Department, recommends P.T.O. Harvesters not spraying open flowers or Easy Maintenance Self-Propelled Air Cab Sweepers bees. Boron can improve set when sprayed on flowers at pink stage, Self-Propelled Sweepers High Resale but can reduce set when sprayed Tractor Mount Sweepers on open flowers. MORE HARVEST PROFIT AT A LOWER COST P.T.O. Blowers If you haven’t yet but still want to, early winter may be a time for dry potassium sulfate application if orchards are not too wet for equipment access yet winter rains aren’t finished. If rain is not in the LOW DUST forecast, growers may want to QUALIFIED wait until after mummies have been 100 Loren Avenue, Chico, CA 95928 (530) 891-6214 | Fax (530) 891-5905 | www.weissmcnair.com shaken and windrowed before

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 45 WM-AlmondFacts1/2v.indd 1 7/18/17 5:17 PM IN YOUR ORCHARD

putting down potassium (K) to avoid possible scattering of While first irrigation is probably not until March at the fertilizer by sweeper blower. High rates of dry material earliest in many regions, it’s a good idea to timing of (for example, 400 to 500 pounds 0-0-50) are not irrigation start. Root health through the season can be advisable on low CEC soils due to leaching risk. influenced by first irrigation timing. If the first irrigation goes on too early and extends soil saturation beyond Looking ahead, consult with your CCA about a cost- natural winter conditions, root health can suffer. Irrigation effective program to maintain adequate orchard K fertility, (not frost control) water should not be applied until the particular if no dry K fertilizer went on before bloom. This soil can hold any applied water without saturation. could be important for future production. Almonds use a lot of K (90 to 100 pound K2O per 1,000 pound kernel Irrigation management is also important. If it has been crop). Big crops mean big crop K use and export from the a few years since this was done, check the distribution orchard. When summer leaf levels drop to one percent K uniformity of your irrigation system this spring. For details or less, yield the following year will suffer and it will be on this practice and others related to irrigation system too late to fix the problem by the time you read the lab health and performance, see micromaintain.ucanr.edu. report. Don’t fall behind on K. Planning Irrigation Consider a meeting with your PCA/CCA to plan out With rain in the forecast and most reservoir levels just economically sustainable crop management programs below or above historical averages, water news could under several nut price scenarios for the coming year. be worse. With a good to decent water situation (to date, knock knock) and modest production versus bearing acreage If winter rainfall is limited by location or year, irrigation growth since 2011, there is a potential for a big crop in water should be applied during the winter to wet the soil 2020, weather permitting. profile to five-foot depth ahead of bud break. This may be a common practice in drier regions of the San Joaquin Wishing good bee activity and warm temperatures at Valley and may not be needed this year. bloom in orchards up and down the state in 2020.

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ALMOND BOARD

Panel Suggests “Moonshot” Effort Needed for Future Ag Water Supply

After decades of over pumping addressing about a quarter of groundwater, California faces the overdraft.” declining water tables and stark Kamyar Guivetchi of the choices ahead — a future so Department of Water Resources challenging that a collective said an unprecedented level “moonshot” effort is needed to of collaboration is needed to preserve water supplies and capture, move and store water viable agriculture in many parts during infrequent periods of of the state. excess rainfall. This will require That message was the theme cooperation at the local, regional among experts participating in and state level, including the a panel session focused on the public and private sector, state’s landmark 2014 Sustainable Guivetchi said. DWR’s Flood Groundwater Management Act, Managed Aquifer Recharge or SGMA, at the Almond Board program, or Flood-MAR, is of California’s (ABC’s) Almond looking at strategies ranging from Conference 2019. re-operating reservoirs, increasing storage and creative efforts to SGMA requires many areas to increase water transfers, and balance supply and demand banking and innovative methods for groundwater, leaving local Photo Credit: Almond Board of California of cultivating crops. regions scrambling to develop plans to ration pumping while figuring out how to return more water to aquifers Perhaps most important, he said, is building conveyance during times of plentiful rain. infrastructure to carry water during the rare times when it is in oversupply and identifying ahead of time the best places Jesse Roseman, principal analyst for Environmental and to send it in hopes of storing it underground. Regulatory Affairs at the Almond Board, led the panel. Roseman said ABC is conducting research, education “Everyone has a part to play in advancing Flood-MAR,” and outreach to help almond growers understand their Guivetchi said. “This is a moonshot for California. opportunities for shoring up water supplies through Getting all these water sectors and agencies to work efforts like recharging aquifers. together is going to take work, but it really is something we need to do.” “We’re looking very closely at how we can recharge in a way that doesn’t harm our trees,” he said. “We’ve Several panelists emphasized that when surplus water got an optimistic goal. The Public Policy Institute of becomes available, it often comes in huge amounts California said that in the San Joaquin Valley we can over very short periods, sometimes with little warning. recharge up to 500,000-acre feet of water per year, But getting ready for those sporadic events can take

48 ALMOND FACTS years of diligent planning, effort and investment. Independence® “The flood flows come fast and they come hard and you need to capture them fast and spread them around,” self-fertile almond Patent #20295 said Don Cameron, Vice President and General Manager of Terra Nova Ranch southwest of Fresno. ONE shake

Terra Nova has made tremendous ONE harvest progress in preparing for and NO BEES. implementing recharge, but it hasn’t been easy, Cameron said. He pointed to a $5 million grant the ranch received toward building a pipeline, canal and recharge project that will cost upwards of $12 million when finished.

“This takes patience,” he said. “We started in 2012 and we are not going to finish until 2020.”

® But Cameron and other farmers on Independence blooms with Nonpareil & the panel said the efforts are not only is harvested 2 to 3 days before Nonpareil. worth it but essential to the future survival of many farms.

Matt Efird, a fifth-generation farmer, advised growers to be ready to cooperate with their irrigation districts, make capital investments in their operations so they can take extra water when it is available, learn which of their soils are right for on-farm recharge and be prepared to adjust their other orchard management practices as needed to accommodate recharge events. ® “We’ve got to do what we can Discuss the advantages of Independence to keep that water from going self-fertile almond with your sales rep today! to the ocean,” Efird said. 209-874-1821 Growers can learn more about SGMA 800-654-5854 at sgma.water.ca.gov/portal. www.davewilson.com

Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 49 CLASSIFIED ADS

WANTED FOR SALE FOR SALE 3-axle Dump truck with steel sides Walnut stakes, 3/4", 10' long, used (2) Johnson’s pickup machines, (diesel) sucker rod, pallets of 10 or 200 up $5,500 each or reasonable offer to 5600 available. $2.50 each, Call (209) 614-2632 Call (559) 485-9496 Escalon area.

WANTED Contact (209) 652-5164 FOR SALE Used walnut chain for Johnson pickup Amarillo Gear Head with PTO machine FOR SALE shaft – rated 60 hp Flory Almond pickup machine 210, Call (209) 838-2108 $1,500. Used very little. Ingels Sweeper, Almond and Peach trailers, Almond Roller, Brush fork, Call (209) 620-4924 WANTED Lift for Bins, Levee Maker, Ridger, 1930-36 cars or pickups and 1932 Windmill top 6 ft diameter, Propane FOR SALE Ford pines winterfront grille insert tank, Model B Case Tractor circa • R & L Easy lift Elevator. 10' also 1930-1934 Ford running chassis. 46-50, Long Camper shell, and hose Height 12" cups. In pieces. FREE! pull with sled. Call (925) 872-0980 • Jessee 500 Air leg 32" belt, no motor. FREE! Call Ann (209) 632-4346 • 11ft. Orchard float w/ Hydraulic WANTED wheels CALL for pictures and Gasoline Memorabilia: Old gas FOR SALE pricing. pumps, gas signs, oil signs, car signs, Tree Stakes for Almonds. 1000’s • 4 Stage sizer, good condition. and old cars and pickups. of used steel stakes to keep your $4,000 almond trees growing straight: Call (559) 485-9496 • 60 H.P. Sturdavent Shell Fan with motor. Complete. $1,500 • 3' @ 75 cents each Contact Ron Piazza at FOR SALE • 4' @ $1.00 each (209) 678-0788 2015, 10.3 Origin propane engine • 5' @ $1.25 each with framing and clutch assembly for Please call (209) 969-0526 deep well irrigation. Total of 559 FOR SALE hours of operation. $20,000. • OMC Shaker Mono Boom FOR SALE Walnut Pattern $350 Call (209) 658-4521 Flory sweeper model 7630 hours 1377 • Rear end Housing for OMC Shaker Mono Boom Shaker – FOR SALE Please call Howard Martin at make offer • Flory 850 with Flory transfer cart (209) 522-7858 $40,000. • 2 Main Boom Arms to hold up Shaker Head. $3,000 OBO • 2 Weimer super carts $750 ea. • 1 Weimer Elevator $500. For more information call All field ready. Contact Robert (559) 485-9496 Chad at (209) 761-2690 or [email protected]

50 ALMOND FACTS FOR SALE FOR SALE 2008 8 Channel Satake Ultrascan. • KCI bank out cart - $13,000 Free listings in this section are for $60,000 • KCI drive over elevator - the exclusive use of Blue Diamond $8,500 members. • Includes platform, Infeed dump • KCI dump cart - $5,000 Classified ads for personal use — hopper, Anex C-style bucket not as an additional means of elevator with 50/50 split Contact Ian at (559) 286-5709 advertising commercial ventures buckets members may own. Ads are limited to a maximum of 10 lines and may • Stainless steel hopper over FOR SALE be submitted to Blue Diamond chutes has been modified to regional manager or the editor at: prevent plugging and bridging of Beautifully restored to original 1931 product Ford Roadster Pickup, $18,000 or Editor: Blue Diamond Growers P.O. Box 1768, Sacramento, CA • Machine is currently set for 2 best offer. 95812 passes (4 channels each) and Call (925) 872-0980 Or contact Samantha DeMelo at: can be run as a single pass (8 Phone: (916) 446-8353 channels) Email: [email protected] • Walnut Setting (can be FOR SALE Unless advised otherwise, ads converted to Almonds) REARS 500 gallon Power Blast will run two consecutive issues. To guarantee placement, classified Please contact Nina at sprayer with 33" fan. Purchased in listings must be submitted by the (209) 609-6689 2016 new. Used 13 times. Maintained 10th of: January, March, May, July, September & November. per manufactures recommendations. FOR SALE Asking $20,000 OBO. 2004 Wiess Bankout Cart w/ Call (209) 604-7444 bump valve. New tail chain. Good condition. $12,500 FOR SALE For more information, call Don at 1 x 4 x 8' DF tree props bundles of (209) 202-4184 200. $50.00 ea.

1 x 4 x 10' bundles of 200. $60.00 ea. FOR SALE 2200 lb./hr. almond hulling plant. Barn stored in Merced. Call Dan at Two lines, Fadie huller and separator (209) 777-3292 deck with three air-legs. Pre-cleaner 15 ton/hr. with midstate pre-cleaner, FOR SALE H8 Foresberg de-stoner, and Agsco • Tractor trailer, 10'x6'-6". 22.5 de-twigger. Complete with pit, tires. Crank up ramps. $4,500 elevators, cyclones, and 190 ft. • Enviromist Sprayer. 6'-6" spray hull auger. Sell all or part. Open band. Brand new. Never used. Cost $2,500. Sell $1,250. to offers. Call (209) 537-9491. Ceres. Contact Gale Langum at (209) 612-4830.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2020 51 PRESORT BLUE DIAMOND GROWERS STANDARD 1802 C Street U.S. POSTAGE Sacramento, CA 95811 PAID SACRAMENTO, CA PERMIT NO. 694