NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016
News, Views & Industry Insights
Annual Meeting Recap: President’s Chairman’s Huller/Sheller Young Leader Corner Message Breakfast Dinner AL4721-NurseryMagAd_4_FNL.pdf 1 8/15/16 4:34 PM AL4721-NurseryMagAd_4_FNL.pdf 1 8/15/16 4:34 PM
CONTENTS NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016
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Features 8 President’s Corner 12 Chairman’s Message 16 FIELD SUPERVISORS Adapted from his 2016 Annual Chairman Dan Cummings urges 18 GROWER LIAISON Meeting speech, President and participation in the cooperative 22 CEO Mark Jansen reviews business democratic process in remarks NEWS IN A NUTSHELL achievements and recognizes key adapted from his 2016 Annual 28 ADVOCACY REPORT personnel from the marketing year. Meeting address. 32 THE BEE BOX 38 TIME TO CONSIDER 20 Huller/Sheller 36 Young Leader 42 CLASSIFIED ADS The 2016 Presidential Election and California Farm Bureau Federation how its outcome will affect agriculture President Paul Wenger stressed the was the topic of this year’s Huller/ importance of advocating on behalf Cover: Sheller Breakfast keynote discussion of the agricultural industry in order Bringing joy to your celebration this season with Blue Diamond’s Washington to affect positive change in the final with the goodness of almonds! representative Julian Heron. meeting of the Young Leader Class of 2016.
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 3 Board of Directors Dan Cummings Chairman of the Board | Chico Dale Van Groningen Vice Chairman | Ripon Kent Stenderup | Arvin Charles Crivelli III | Turlock Kevin Fondse | Ripon John Monroe | Arbuckle George Goshgarian | Fresno Stephen Van Duyn | Modesto Robert Weimer | Atwater Don Yee | El Dorado Hills Joe Huston | Monterey Officers Mark Jansen, President and CEO Dean LaVallee, Chief Financial Officer Almond Facts Staff Alicia Rockwell, Corporate Communications Director Cassandra Montgomery, Managing Editor Mel Machado, Contributing Photographer Gray Allen, Advertising Sales 916.783.4334 & 916.765.3234
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Blue Diamond, the world’s largest processor and marketer of almonds, exports to 90 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. Advertising carried in this magazine does not necessarily reflect the beliefs, opinions, or attitudes of Blue Diamond and does not imply product or service endorsement. 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 2016. Keep the beauty of almond bloom longer.
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71948.02 ReTain CA Ad-AlmondFacts_7x10.indd 1 11/18/16 10:50 AM Thank You To Our Sponsors and Exhibitors Blue Diamond’s 2016 Annual Meeting Knowledge Dedication Leadership
Sponsors Sapphire Sponsor - Farm Credit Pearl Sponsor - Bank of America Refreshment Sponsors Ruby I Sponsor - Netafim USA Resting Lounge Sponsors - • Flory • Valent Ruby II Sponsor - Duarte Nursery Syngenta • SunWorks
Exhibitors AGERpoint Hortau Principal Financial Group Agromillora California Jackrabbit RL Wells and Associates Bayer Crop Science Jain Irrigation Sierra Gold Nurseries BioFlora LegalShield Spectrum Technologies, Inc. Bowsmith, Inc. Lodi Pump and Irrigation Waterford Irrigation Supply Burchell Nursery Orchard Machinery Corp Wellmark Dave Wilson Nursery Pan American Deerpoint Group Engage Agro Exact Corp Greenleaf Ag Hat Source
6 Almond Facts NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Exact .indd 1 10/19/16 4:37 PM 8 PRESIDENT’S CORNER Almond Facts other handlers were not so fortunate. As the the As were not fortunate. so handlers other few defaults, have to very we managed While leadership! and dedication knowledge, Blue Diamond in many so like team, This teams. service customer and sales Ingredients Global of the rest Warren Cohen the and Morecraft, Bill to we owe thanks our season, marketing adifficult through them managing and of customers list aquality such building For swings. market previous surviving after capitalized who better tend be to customers, our with relationships decades-long has Growers Diamond Fortunately,receipt. Blue more upon worth be to almonds known only had and industry almond buyers were new the to of these Many apound. less $.50 worth fall the in arriving containers almond had peak, summer at the purchased who had Dubai, in Customers softened. prices more and robust crop for aslightly potential the recognized industry the harvest, At levels. unsustainable to pushed prices crops smaller and drought of for 2015, summer on-going the In expectations sheets. balance their strengthen to for growers time agreat It was tripled. prices almond span, a seven-year Over (and for some, alittle alot) it always painful. is bursts bubble bubble. market any When pricing industry almond an created had drought the that it clear is hindsight, In on record. most volatile the was year past This “treat Diamond Blue with associated Everyone orchards. large and small including farms, almond owners’ of our vitality economic the ensure to is co-op of the purpose The returns. your maximizing by respond We crop. almond of your form the in work year’s your with us You entrust partnership. by bonded afamily is co-op Our grow. to us helps and us sustains what is Family family?” your is how “Mark, is, question common most owners’ the where organization an at work to day, grateful Every Iam 2016 Address from Meeting Adapted Annual Leadership. Dedication. Knowledge. Blue Diamond’s has a tremendous sense of purpose. Our co-op team members frequently hear from me, from hear frequently members team co-op Our of purpose. sense atremendous has
NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016 , provided unwavering unwavering provided , President and CEO and President Jansen Mark Corner President’s business like it’s your own; our growers are counting on you.” on counting are growers our it’s own; your like business
2016 Almond Prices Amongst Best Ever! $0.00 $0.50 $1.00 $1.50 $2.00 $2.50 $3.00 $3.50 $4.00 $4.50 $5.00 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 94 95 96 current almond prices are amongst the best on record. best the amongst are prices almond current drought-induced bubble, of the years peak two the Excluding even rising. are and stable have remarkably been prices correction, dramatic this Since returned. markets developing in Demand themarket. in back confidence building began and inventory contract defaulted the worked through industry Slowly the bottom. rock hit February, market the in Finally, further. down prices pushing almonds, sell to were desperate growers pool call when were no handlers’ other there buyers, time this During lowered price again. the if see to waiting buy. to were reluctant customers kept They Good prices. in spiral adownward creating on default contracts, also to India causing prices, at discount market on the back containers sent orphaned they contracts, on their buyers defaulted shaky 97 98 99 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Drought Bubble 14 15 16 15 16 Last year, with the market pricing bubble and subsequent so. This innovative design creates the industry’s gentlest bursting, pricing volatility was four times the normal. We handling, ensuring maximum quality premiums. calculated that a handler selling its inventory only one In Salida and Sacramento, we increased maximum month earlier would have gotten a $.20 return advantage. processing capacity by more than 50 million pounds each. With our size and business model, Blue Diamond Growers At Turlock, we designed and built the first phase, with a must sell throughout the year. Those who attended District maximum capacity of 89 million pounds. Last year, we Meetings heard my concern. Fortunately, not only did we blew away our original expectations and processed over beat every handler, but we achieved a record competitive 105 million pounds! For so effectively building our capacity, return advantage of nearly $.18 a pound! That in the most congratulations to Brian Barczak and the over 1,300 people volatile year ever, Blue Diamond achieved the best competitive on his Blue Diamond manufacturing team. return is testament to our value-added business strategy and the extraordinary people of Blue Diamond. The calendar year With our new Almond Breeze advertising, Blue Diamond created is not complete, but once again your CFO, Dean LaVallee, its 2nd best all-time campaign. By modernizing our classic estimates that your tax advantages from co-op membership “Can a Week” ads, we told consumers that the best almonds will be as significant as your competitive return advantage. make the best almond milk. And the best almonds come directly from the best almond growers. It is a universal truth that until something becomes scarce, we fail to realize its value. Blue Diamond members ... Congratulations! You had the vision and trust to join the Blue Diamond co-op. Your Blue Diamond membership is incredibly valuable. Next to your land and trees, your membership may be your most valuable asset. Every year it gives you the highest returns in the almond industry. Margin enhancement, what some might call cost cutting or increasing efficiency, is the fuel that funds Blue Diamond’s growth. There is tremendous innovation, change management and organizational effort that goes into margin enhancement. Last year, the team was very productive. They overcame all challenges to deliver margin savings of $13 million! Each year we maintain these improvements, so over six years we have a compounded total savings of over $64 million. This work has allowed Blue Diamond to build new warehouses and factories, grow marketing investments, develop the talent of the organization and most importantly, ensure our growers see the best returns. We are managing supply, but please know we are still aggressively growing. Right now, our innovative new Salida warehouse holds 50 million pounds of your best Nonpareil almonds. In Modesto, it was front page news and deservedly
Margin Enhancement is Fuel for Growth
$64M Cumulative Annual Margin $51M Savings 2016 $42M +$13M! (Millions) $34.5M $23M 2016 was an Olympic year which means it was the focus $10.5 of our marketing and promotion. We sponsored USA Volleyball and USA Swimming and Diving. This was the 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 first Olympics where we had advertising spots for both snack
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 9 10 PRESIDENT’S CORNER Almond Facts John officially retired and we owe him our thanks. our him and we owe retired John officially October, In more profitable. significantly became and Blue Diamond at four years his During full-time. in step to John agreed company, the left Director Retail International our When part-time. us join and retirement his postpone John to I convinced business, retail aEuropean grow to leadership you.” Blue Diamond When say thank and action take reality, identify things: you do need three to business, in “Mark, advice, Iremember his results. getting and simple for things keeping aknack with marketer global accomplished an also was gentleman British very This Beadle. John Officer, Operating Food Company, Schwan The Chief my mentor the was At mentors.my former employer, were first our fathers another.” For sharpens our one of us, man as just many iron, sharpens proverb, the “Iron like It is best. our be to us challenge when and necessary We guide to need others visibility. global brand our gives solution that competitive and innovative Together an up with we came China.” and India like places and U.S. the throughout including televised, are games wherever Kings exposure them, “ them, We get. to play to told hard advantage our to it was shared, legally be cannot total sponsorship the While Blue Diamond have pursuing been Kings Sacramento the other sponsorships For years, business. our six to support at we were looking years, Beyond Olympic sponsorships. sport at Weleveraging effective have become very Hagener! Suzanne and Erwin Maya Greenlee, Al leaders, marketing 23 Kudos our percent. to at 12 continued percent to lift sales our Olympics the after games, the by 16 business our percent during increase this did Not only sales. in lifts tremendous created buys of media our synergy and power Olympics the of the Breeze Almond and almonds Blue Diamond , our European retail business doubled in size doubled size in business retail European , our
NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016 is a global business. We business. need broad aglobal is . The quality of our advertising, of advertising, our quality . The John O’Shaughnessy needed . seeing the Mount of Blue Diamond the Rushmore seeing You retirements, upon their mayago, remember, years two retirement. well-deserved a on Congratulations appreciation. our Jan show we better, office Membership the with contact every For resolution. positive making a ended with and Billings Jan with started that call of competency aphoneyou have enjoyed cheerful the of Blue Diamond grower-owners 3,000 than more the was priority mom. However, her first work a probably needed they know, you And her “Mom.”called field men of the Several charge. in was she office, theSalida at differently, suggested her title Although Billings. Jan was Membership for Grower Assistant the Administrative For 26 years, last the honor employeesalso retiring. who are event the we At years. 50 more to 25 from than milestones service employees with thank to celebrations annual we have Sacramento and Salida In culture. partnership about our something honorto says employees. This Blue Diamond Debbie my friends. wife his and Clinton call Iget to that and mentoring for his forever thankful am I start. fast to a I got off that ensured and enthusiasm my guided gently Clinton acoach. like acted he always relationship, our complemented In mine. wonderfully skills his of four CEOs, careers the spanning experience Diamond my to first humbly owe adebtI also of gratitude boss, Clinton Shick. With Blue Diamond With Shick. Clinton boss, is a unique company in that it takes time time it takes that in company aunique is Jan Billings monument to great great to monument our completed have we O’Shaughnessy, John leader Consumer American North our summer retirement of Brauner. the With Susan Affairs, of Public Director the and Lish Bruce Manufacturing, of Baker, Director the Dave Membership, of Director It the included 14 Years of Leadership in North American Retail employees. employees. . Most of board board Blue Blue 26 Years of Leadership in Grower Relations Office former Blue Diamond leaders. John has been an instrumental contributor to marketing strategy on the Almond North American Retail Growth Board of California, but most $800 importantly, in our branded consumer $700 business, he was the leader who “got $600 our good going.” John and his North Net Sales $Millions $500 American Consumer team grew our $400 Almond Breeze, Nut*Thins and snack $300 almond businesses to net sales of more $200 than $700 million. Those of you who $100
have met John know him as a former $0 New Yorker with a bigger than life 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Jan Billings personality, great sense of humor and no lack of confidence. It is my honor to share this “numbers don’t lie” chart of John and his team’s achievement. We owe John our Nut*Thins and Almond Breeze sell very well, they are not the Raj Joshi, SVP Global Retailcheapest. We test to ensure Blue Diamond has the highest appreciation for his extraordinary impact on the growth of our North American Consumer business. quality and best taste. When retailers imitate Blue Diamond with similar looking products, they are always cheaper 26 Years of Leadership in and inferior tasting. Grower Relations Office You have the power to influence. In addition to being owners of the co-op, you are also retail food customers and local farmers. We need you to become brand champions for Blue Diamond. Retailers respond to consumer requests and to the community pressure to purchase locally grown. Consumer protests have gotten our products back on the shelf. Make sure you speak with the local store managers. No need to say I sent you, because your voice as consumers, family farmers and co-op owners is the most influential. Imagine the power of 3,000 farm families making sure their networks of friends and neighbors request Blue Diamond products. Take on this challenge and soon, I look forward to sharing that you got our products back on the shelf. The power of Blue Diamond is in our commitment to partnership. We are at our strongest as a network of growers, employees and partners. Together, over the last six years, we have had It is never easy replacing a legend. After an exhaustive search, an incredible run. We have grown through investments in I am pleased to introduce your new Global Retail Leader, Raj new plants, warehouses and marketing. The result has been Joshi. Most recently, Raj was VP and General Manager for increasingly competitive returns. Thank you for the opportunity Kellogg’s Pringles business. He has a strong background in to work for a strong values-based company. marketing, product innovation and consumer insights. He also My concluding remark is always the same; together, the best is that rare ivy league MBA whose personality and values fit our is yet to come! unique Blue Diamond culture. Because he has extensive global marketing experience in Europe and Asia, under his leadership we are combining our North American and International Retail divisions. Please welcome Raj to Blue Diamond. We can all help Raj continue his sales growth. His biggest challenge is retailers who replace Blue Diamond with cheaper products. And while our snack almonds,
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 11 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE 12 Almond Facts were eight months earlier, causing an an were eight earlier, months causing of what they half to fell of almonds price the Then most locations. in improve did conditions water though winter, past this materialized never Niño El Godzilla The began. crop 2016 of the harvest the as just peaking prices high record and of almonds use water on the scrutiny heavy drought, of severe year brought fourth the 2015 year Crop back! to back years remarkable two accomplished recently most and time through control our we have as maintained today true ring of founder words our visionary The success.” us bring surely will in persisted course This his. rightly is which situation of the control in grower the put to desire a sincere with but of preferment place or position no seeking up, made slate no with together come market…We the have steady but to pay more to consumer the cause or market the corner to not seeking growers, as together “We come have industry. almond for the course a new set J.P.founder Dargitz exchange growers almond 18, 1910, March On California Future Our Drives Leadership of Legacy
NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016 himno the Board of Chairman Dan Cummings Chairman’s Message talented Blue Diamond of our expertise the with easier made is profitably and wisely Growing come. to years for success our sustain and interests protect your future will this I believe membership’s current investments. the protect to pace but atgrow amanaged to continue you we will Iassure stock. take and pause to elected thoughtfully we year this cooperative, the join to growers encouraged have traditionally we Though your return. weaken and volume value-added our overrun to potential the has tonnage, added with paired interest, new membership in surge This growers. among interest new bringing years, several last the returns strong in consistency and we have as enjoyedsuccess security the on builds Success wisely. we grow that it essential making opportunity, embracing and adversity for facing potent weapon avery is cooperative your that shown has year this Clearly world.homes the around into crop their of getting process entire the benefit controlling of unique the enjoy always will grower-owners but Blue Diamond of agriculture, nature it’s times, the challenging face to continue We will return. competitive another very delivering held firm, Blue Diamond volatility, unprecedented today. such But, even with strengthen to continuing while range trading to a more back normal resetting finally before market the in swing extreme They will guide us, pushing forward, forward, pushing us, guide will They
team members. members. team • • • • • continues:team the as hands good in we are I know sales. milk almond and flour of almond growth strong up with stepped really teams sales global the Additionally, Salida. in warehouse storage Nonpareil art equipment new, and of state sorting new electronic the with operations efficient and quality drive to ability team’s our was highlight Another Sacramento. in new arena and Kings Sacramento NBA of the most recent sponsorship yet the come to value from at the excited very Iam and impressions brand and sales produced strong Olympics Summer the during Volleyball and Swimming USA with partnerships team’sThe successful foundation. financial strong very our guarding also while potential cooperative’s the maximizing and opportunities right the pursuing margin enhancement. margin and operations in efficiency through assets our protecting and; regulation and of legislation onslaught negative counter to the growers of our on behalf advocating world, the around new markets opening for uses almonds, and products and developingresearching new added products, value ingredient and branded for demand Blue Diamond building
I am confident that we have the right tools, and more importantly, the right team in place to continue achieving strong results and maintain consistent returns. Your board of directors is privileged to serve as your voice and representation in the governance of our cooperative. We serve tirelessly, committedly and with great concern for your best interests. Now, as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, but for two of your directors it is just a new beginning. I am honored to recognize their distinguished and long history of service. Elaine Rominger is retiring as District 2 director after 15 years of service. As the only woman in Blue Diamond’s 106-year history to hold a seat on the cooperative’s board of directors, Elaine was committed to bringing a different perspective to board interactions. She also encouraged other women to get involved with the cooperative. Her involvement in key board decisions helped change Blue Diamond for the Elaine Rominger and better. I asked Elaine what counsel she Clinton Shick retired from the cooperative's might leave the board, after her many board of directors. years of service, to which she replied, “Endeavor to fill open employee positions with highly talented, cooperative-minded individuals.” District 9 director Clinton Shick is retiring after more than 33 years on the board. Through his tenure, he served as vice chairman for 16 years and chairman of the board for eight years. clinton was an active board member with a strong commitment to this cooperative. He was impactful in leading the board in annual strategic planning and investing in the cooperative’s branded product line. His parting counsel was twofold, “Keep your eye on the big picture and … the board should continue to demonstrate the importance of having the right people – the right leadership – who
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 13 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE 14 Almond Facts of the board of directors. board of the strength complement existing the undoubtedly will business strategic and international operational, John’s farming, in experience committees. Advisory and Liaison 2Grower District Diamond’s Blue He amember 1998. is ofsince Arbuckle in almonds farmed has John Inc., Farms, of Done-Again CEO As 45 years. for more than amemberbeen of Blue Diamond Monroe welcomes John also board The board. the to asset avaluable him make will world the in processor and handler Growers Diamond Blue maintaining devotion to Kent’s chairman. vice as serves where he currently of California Diamond Blue represented has four years last for and the committees, Advisory and 9’s Grower Liaison District on both served He has area. Arvin the in farm family on his crops row and trees vines, grown has For Stenderup Kent 35 years of directors. your to board expertise unique and of experience but awealth growers as not contributions them only with brings Each board. the to leaders new welcome to pleased two I am Blue Diamond to commitment outstanding for you your Clinton Thank cooperative.” the to perspectives different and value added bring on the Almond Board Board Almond on the . The Monroe family has has family Monroe . The . as the #1 the as almond
NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016
This means: co-op. Your participationandengagementisvital. foundation ofthedemocracywhich governs our numerous liaisoncommittee membersisthevery The processtoelecttwoboardmembersand respect for others …thisis respect forothers The Power inPartnership! values ofintegrity, hardwork,commitment toqualityand as The Almond People, onoursocialandcultural wedeliver . Together,going toshinebrighterfor BlueDiamondGrowers is106Our cooperative strongandthefutureisonly years decision makingskills,andthenextgenerationsucceeding us. investing daily inourfarms,farmingknowledgeand each ofyou,ourgrower-owners. We arestewards oftheland prosperity. This futurebeginsand endswiththededicationof engagementis youractive tosupport futuregrowthand Remember, ofoursuccessfulcooperative thecornerstone board of directors itself.board ofdirectors contribute ontaskforces,committees, andthe of California–therearemany opportunities to Represent BlueDiamondatthe Almond Board Run forelectiontoyourlocalliaison committee. Participate. updates distributedthroughemail. annual meeting.Read Almond Facts and the Attend summerdistrictmeetingsandour Stay Informed. action committee. Contribute toourBlueDiamondpolitical comment onissuesimpactingtheindustry. social mediatoshareaboutagricultureand Almond Alliance ofCalifornia.Learn anduse withlocalFarm Bureausorthemembership Action Alert Consider letters tolegislators. throughFarmand yourcooperative Bureau Speak outforyourfarm,industry, Advocate.
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1555 Baldwin Rd, Hughson, CA 95326 | www.duartenursery.com | [email protected] FIELD SUPERVISORS 16 Almond Facts
Justin Elam Matt Willson Brian Noeller Mel Machado [email protected] 559.897.0304 Home 559.554.4118 Cell County Kern Highway; Lindsay of South County, Tulare Southern [email protected] 209.303.7306 Cell Merced River to Hwy 140 Merced County from the [email protected] 209.545.6222 Salida 209.531.6352 Cell Director, Member Relations [email protected] 209.417.2010 Cell Road /Bellevue Westside of North 99, Highway of East County Merced 99; Hwy of East River, Tuolumne of South County Stanislaus
NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016
Sacramento Membership Department Department Membership Sacramento Salida Membership Department Salida Membership P 209.545.6225 •F209.545.6215 P 209.545.6225 Ernie Reichmuth Jereme Fromm Dennis Meinberg San Joaquin River, and North of Patterson of North and River, Joaquin San the of West County Stanislaus river, Tuolumne the of North County Stanislaus Rd; Austin of West County Joaquin San [email protected] 559.645.4708 Home 559.474.2996 Cell 18-1/2 Avenue of North County Madera Road; /Bellevue Westside of South County Merced Patterson; of South River, Joaquin San of West County Joaquin San [email protected] 209.596.9520 Cell [email protected] 530.674.4724 Home 530.864.0619 Cell Counties Butte and Glenn, Tehama, Other Inquiries Other P 916.446.8368
Mike Griffin KC Stone Michael Grindstaff County, North of Merced River, West of Hwy 99 Hwy of West River, Merced of North County, Merced River; Joaquin San of East and 99 Hwy of West River, Tuolumne of South County Stanislaus River; Stanislaus of North 4, Hwy of South Rd, Austin of East County Joaquin San [email protected] 559.470.9731 Cell and 180 KammAvenueHighway between County Fresno Central [email protected] 559.449.9751 Home Cell 559.779.6400 180 Highway of North County Fresno Northern -1/2; 18 Avenue of South County Madera Southern [email protected] 209.596.5375 Cell Shasta DisplayAd8.5x11Bleed.pdf111/2/1611:26AM S industry buyers Has receivedhighratingsfrom slightly aheadofNonpareil Blooms andharvestswithor both shelledandin-shelluse High crackout60 Early, One harvest Size 20/22to24/25almonds/oz. Monterey orCarmeltype. Beautiful, lightandsmoothkernel. e l f-F heavy B urch erti production T l e – burchellnursery.com 800828-TREE e 65%, goodfor h l l PROGRAM BREEDING e S A N f l u i m r r s ser t of has o n y Summ f atremendouscrop.” “For youngtreestheyhaveproduced asanyvarietyI’ “The ShastaAlmondshakesaseasy BA2 var. (PPAF) d fr that’s theBurchellDifference. Better scienceforbetterresults... e r ing fromth o m Robert Borba Greg Meyers it ta B A ve seen.” u l mond Se , AlmondGrowerFirebaugh , FieldRepresentative r e c h n ® ew e l l N r ies. , MinturnNut ursery ® , CA
© 2016 The Burchell Nursery, Inc. 2016 GROWER LIAISON 18 Almond Facts For GrowerLiaisoncontact information,pleasecontactyourfield supervisor. Douglas D.Mathews Gerald Rominger Elaine Rominger Michael DeRee Maria GriseldaJauregui Cathy Marsh Carole MCain Logan Dennis Matt LaGrande Joe Kalfsbeek Michael F. Doherty Mary AnnWarmerdam Bill Weller Jim Peart John W. Monroe District 2 W. Howard Isom Dan Cummings P. SamanthaLewis Rico Cinquini Warren Gilbert Luke Konyn Greg Long Thomas B.Martin John Erickson Ray Antonowich Larry Bradley Matt Vernoga Fred Montgomery Kevin Borror District 1 John Thoming Dale Van Groningen Ian Koetsier William JVan RynII Stephen Vander Veen Durk Van Laar Richard Low Kris Thomsen Mike Bogetti Jim Thoming Craig Miller Bruce Oosterkamp Allen Sipma Bill Koster District 3
* ** ! C ! ! VC ‘09 ABA ** ! ! ! VC C * * ** C VC ! VC ! NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016 Kenneth Roos Kevin Fondse Phil Mohler Ryan Winters Matt Visser Greg Kamper Wes Eisenga Sherwin DeBoer Joe Gasper Mike Ballatore Donovan Adrian Herman Doornenbal Jake Sonke Peter MartiniJr. District 4 Bill Brush Steve Vilas Charles CrivelliIII Don Mailloux Bart Muller Philip GWagner Steven Scheuber Chris Miller Eric Brush Christine Gemperle-Bacon Tim A.Vieira Rod Vilas Darrell Cordova Aaron Piazza Jeff Lee District 6 Neil Van Duyn Stephen Van Duyn Ed Tillema Gerret Bowman Alex Vanderstoel John RegusciJr. Doug Ott Hans Waner III Lucas Van Duyn Kyle Oosterkamp Jerad Heinrich Jake Verberg Dennis Bowers Harry H.JohnsIII District 5 * ** ! ! ! C VC * ** ! VC ! ! C ‘02 ABA * ** ! ! VC C ! David L.Zollinger Robert J.Weimer Tim Lohman Steve Moeller Jon-Mark Horta Rick Scoto Jim Snyder Jeff Baize Frank Fagundes Pete Bandoni Dr. S.S."Toki" Takhar Michael Ohki Don Harcksen Dan Clendenin District 7 2016 2 * ** ! ! VC ! C 1 3 6 4 Rusty Nonini David Massaro Curtis Bettencourt Dan Wattenbarger Richard Markarian Kyle Rodrigues R.J. Maan District 8 Aldo Sansoni George Goshgarian David Tolmosoff Ryan Indart Nayiri Saghdejian Ranbir Grewal 5 7 8 ! C VC * ABD ** ! ! Director Almond Board Alternate Almond Board (Member-at-large) Appointed Director Ex-Officio Vice-Chairman Chairman Legend 9 Rick Jelmini Carl Nikkel David Snell Kent Stenderup Diana Clark Ben Wilson Spencer Ernie Dominic Fino District 9 Clinton Shick Chris Vandborg Kyle Balakian Sean Shick Mark Fanucchi
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PA0415b_AlmondFacts.indd 1 8/5/2016 12:03:06 PM Huller/Shellers Good for Agriculture “The election was very good for agriculture and rural Consider Election America,” Heron declared. “The reason for that was that Blue Diamond’s federal rural America turned out in record numbers. Even though Outcome advocate provides insights the total turnout for the election was the lowest since 1996, in the rural areas the turnout was huge. And by and large Trump was supported in those areas. That accounted “Last Tuesday’s presidential election results for his victory in a number of states where he was not were totally unexpected, unpredicted and no expected to do well.” one thought it was going to happen,” declared Therefore, agriculture will have special importance not Julian Heron of Tuttle Taylor Heron, Washington, only in the Trump administration, but also the Democrats D.C. – based representatives for Blue Diamond will be paying much closer attention to agriculture than and other cooperatives on federal policy and they have in the past, Heron observed. He pointed out regulations. Speaking at the annual huller/ that the last time either party paid much attention to sheller breakfast the morning of the annual rural areas was in the election of George Bush, Sr. “This member meeting, Heron called the 2016 election will bring the parties back home and that will be presidential election “a revolution of sorts.” very good for us,” Heron said. Sponsored by Duarte Nursery again this year, the annual While many pundits have been criticizing the pre-election breakfast attracts more than 100 huller/sheller operators polling, Heron points out “the polls were not very far off. to network and consider issues of interest to their industry. Up to the last week that the polling was covering, 80 to 85 This year, the presidential election was top of mind. percent of the voters had made up their mind which way Heron explained the surprise results this way: “The silent they intended to vote. But the large group of undecideds majority woke up, went to the polls and voted, and that is remained undecided until the last week. During that last something that had not happened in a long, long time, and it week, they broke hard for Trump. The polls just couldn’t made a real difference.” pick that up.” What Could Happen? Julian Heron provides an overview of the election While it is impossible to say exactly how results at the annual breakfast. policy will break for agriculture, some signs look good. Some rural-state people are being placed in positions of importance. The president-elect supports renewable fuel standards, which helps the corn industry. He opposes the Trans Pacific Trade agreement, which could be good for almonds if it is approved. He wants to renegotiate NAFTA, which if amended may or may not benefit agriculture. He said he will use executive action and regulatory oversight to overturn some of the things Obama has done, such as Waters of the US, which is vigorously opposed by agriculture. That may be done soon. Trump also said he would have farmers and ranchers advising him on immigration policy for agriculture, which could be very good for California agriculture. Overall, the election bodes well for our industry, Heron concluded, but many unknowns remain.
20 Almond Facts NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Sacramento Kings and Blue Diamond Announce Multi-Year Partnership
Blue Diamond Growers will join forces with another Sacramento institution, the Sacramento Kings, in a multi-year sponsorship beginning with the 2017 season of the National Basketball Association. “This marketing investment is multi-year and multi-layered, giving us many ways to showcase the Blue Diamond brand to basketball fans every time they attend or tune in to a Sacramento Kings’ game,” said Mark Jansen, Blue Diamond President and CEO.
The most visible aspect of the partnership comes in the placement of the cooperative’s iconic logo on the left chest of the Kings’ team jerseys beginning next season, 2017/18. The NBA is the first U.S. professional league to allow uniform branding, and Blue Diamond is the second company to secure branding rights for a team. “Just as we aim to be first to market with our products, our early involvement in this kind of opportunity will be significant,” said Raj Joshi, Blue Diamond’s Senior Vice President of Global Retail. Kings President Chris Granger highlighted the importance of agriculture to the greater Sacramento community in their decision to partner with Blue Diamond. “For decades, Blue Diamond almonds have been one of Sacramento’s most well- known products around the country. We are proud of this This innovative marketing partnership also includes community’s history of high-quality agriculture. It’s why Blue Diamond visibility in design elements at Sacramento’s we’ve committed to supporting local producers by using brand-new Golden 1 Center, the world’s first LEED locally sourced food in our arena and why our players are Platinum indoor arena. The new Center features the proud to showcase the Blue Diamond brand on the court and NBA’s first open door arena, which will allow the Delta around the league.” breeze to blow past almond trees planted in the arena’s main entry plaza. Within the arena, Almond Breeze will be Additionally, the Sponsorship TV-visible on the sideline “aprons” in front of the home Will Include: and visiting team benches. “We are thrilled for this opportunity to further secure local • Four seasons as the Official Snack Nut of the and global top-of-mind brand recognition, share the story Sacramento Kings of our grower-owned 106-year-old cooperative, and boldly • Use of the Kings logo in media and specified programs communicate our health and wellness message that the best • Almond Breeze signage within the suite-level bridge in the almonds come from Blue Diamond Growers,” Jansen said. Golden 1 Center, Sacramento’s state-of-the-art new arena “This partnership is a big deal and supports our ongoing commitment to maximize the returns of each grower who • Golden 1 Center chef-inspired menu items will be sold entrusts Blue Diamond with their almonds.” at the stadium and communicated through videos on Kings’ digital, social media and in-arena channels
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 21 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL 22 Almond Facts notice a lack of Blue Diamond alack notice out you and shopping are time Next Take challenge! the grown. locally purchase to pressure community the to and requests to consumer respond office. Retailers buying by the reviewed would be suggestion his that Chapman to responded representative member service a and notice took Costco community,” Chapman. wrote and farmers local the supporting almonds local from made is and with, replaced product it the was than much better Valley. tastes product that asuperior is “It Breeze Almond back bring to Costco local Diamond Blue Diamond demand. overwhelming the ignore to retailer it for is harder the the products, for ask certain consumers for champions Bluebecome Diamond brand you can food customers, retail and farmers local As Blue Diamond Difference a Champions Making Brand B A C P5 S 100 i o 100 z
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100 name carries a a carries name Brand Brand Almond Breeze Almond Nog Makes Holiday Season Debut The holidays just got that much merrier for fans of Blue Diamond’s Almond Breeze. Almond Breeze Almondmilk Nog is available at select retailers just in time for the holiday season. Two limited edition flavors include Classic and Vanilla Chai Spice, can be found at SaveMart and other locations throughout the California Central Valley.
Almonds Lead Nut Category in New Product Introductions Across Europe According to Innova Market Insights latest Global New Product Introductions Report, almonds are now the number one nut in new introductions in Europe with a 48 percent regional share and a new record high of 42 percent globally. Germany, UK and France follow the United States as the top leading countries introducing new almond products. With 4,313 new almond products, Europe saw a double-digit growth of 16 percent increase in 2015. This is the first time almonds have taken the top spot in Europe with the lead being particularly driven by increased consumer demand in the snacks and bars sectors as well as growing interest in lactose-free and gluten-free - the leading health claim in United Kingdom almond introductions. The demand for almonds can also be attributed to their role as natural, nutrient-rich ingredients with appealing taste and crunch and extensive versatility.
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 23 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL 24 Almond Facts Recipe of the Month
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AGRICULTURAL COUNCIL OF CALIFORNIA 28 Almond Facts for years to come. to for years connections lasting in result and invaluable are tours such during fostered relationships Thepositive efforts. outreach Diamond We appreciate agriculture. facing issues critical the about from members our first-hand hear they ensure to legislators with tours upcoming We preparing are California. in processed percent almonds of the 90 more than including products of healthy, local array impressive an process produce and who grow, farmers California 15,000 represent more than we that communicate and viewpoint our advocate legislators, with bridges ever build to than more important It is Legislature. the in point focal the remains agenda aprogressive election, national of the results the Despite Republican. of the favor in leaning currently outcomethe race of aclose however, Senate; the pending it not is asupermajority in amajority retain Democrats issues. policy impacts significantly supermajority whether the determined However, ballot. on the it yetamendments be is to placement of the constitutional and rules ethics to changes hikes, of tax for passage easier votes allowing of the holds two-thirds party where the supermajority have a Democrats Assembly election, of the aresult As districts. suburban and urban represent legislators of new majority the that given particularly issues, key our on communication and outreach prioritizes Council Ag why is This elections. in subsequent prevail they if 2028 through office in be could legislators new limits, term year 12- With freshman. incoming are percent 20 about out of 120 legislators, level, state the At perspective. gain able to are we settling, dust the With election. acrimonious sometimes and It’s acontentious been into 2017 Forward Moving which is in the farming community’s best interest. best community’s farming the in is which approach, balanced apolitically with solutions pragmatic 2017, into we transition work to continues As on Council Ag Issues attheForefront Legislative &Regulatory ’s past and continued participation in these these in ’s participation continued and past Council of California Council Agricultural EMILY ROONEY, EMILY
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Ag Council is opposing the State Water Resources Control Board’s effort to force 40 percent unimpaired flows from ® three San Joaquin River tributaries for the beneficial use of Fan-Jet fish and wildlife, in addition to salinity control. By drastically Microsprinklers slashing surface water allocations, this plan will result in job and economic losses. Ag Council is participating in the Add a Fan-Jet® line public hearing process and supports the request by locals for the Board to focus on non-flow measures, such as river and to existing dual line drip habitat improvements, as well as predation suppression. Prop. 65 The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has a number of pending regulations impacting chemicals that are used in production agriculture and/or naturally-occurring in the environment. From bisphenol-A (BPA) to lead, many of these compounds are prevalent throughout agriculture. Additional developments are anticipated in 2017, and Ag Council remains very involved in Prop 65.
Upcoming Events Ag Council invites Blue Diamond Growers to join us • Salt build up problem? for the following events in 2017. Further details will be Why? - Fan-Jets will allow you to push salts down and available soon at: www.agcouncil.org/events. away from the root zone. • Annual frost events? World Ag Expo Breakfast ~ February 15, 2017 - Fan-Jets can help provide frost protection by Heritage Complex on the Expo Showgrounds ~ Tulare raising the ambient temperature by 2-3 degrees. • Problem pushing pre-emergents into your soil? 98th Annual Meeting ~ March 8-10, 2017 - Fan-Jets will help your pre-emergents penetrate Park Hyatt Aviara Resort ~ Carlsbad Golf Tournament the soil. & PAC Fundraiser at Torrey Pines on March 8, 2017 ~ La Jolla Legislative Conference ~ May 16, 2017 Hyatt Regency ~ Sacramento Quality & Trust Since 1974 Tell your dealer you want Fan-Jets. Contact us at 1-800-BOWSMITH or www.bowsmith.com Quality & Trust Since 1974 American Made. American Owned.
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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 29 Contributing to BDG Foundation Scholarships Aids Future of Almond Industry
Several years ago the Blue Diamond Board of Directors established the Blue Diamond Growers Foundation Scholarship. During the course of that time the foundation has annually awarded scholarships to many qualified students who have demonstrated both academic excellence and community involvement. The students are selected from within the almond growing region of California and have indicated that they are preparing for careers that will be associated with areas such as production agriculture, food processing and research. The scholarship is open to Blue Diamond grower-members and employees’ families, as well as the general public.
“It is a pleasure to participate annually in the Scholarships take money and although the Foundation selection of the scholarship recipients but also difficult is connected to Blue Diamond, it is responsible for its because we get many more qualified applicants than we own funding. can award scholarships,” said Bob Weimer, Director “As I reflect on the last few years of almond returns from District 7. and I look at my impending obligation to the IRS, I am Blue Diamond is a front-runner in support of all aspects putting a check in the mail to the Blue Diamond Growers of the California almond industry. The sponsoring Foundation and letting the government help pay for this of things such as its Young Leader Program and tax deductible donation,” said Weimer. scholarships are ways of demonstrating commitment to the future of the almond industry. “Scholarships are a long-term investment,” Weimer Send Contributions said. “We commit to put money out with anticipation that some day we will reap rewards no different than Payable to: when we plant a new orchard. We cannot directly Blue Diamond Growers Foundation, evaluate the success of scholarships as we can with 1802 C Street, Sacramento, CA 95811 pounds of almonds per acre, but we do know that many of these students return with new knowledge and become productive citizens.” Thank you for your support!
Past Scholarship Recipients
30 Almond Facts NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 SCHOLARSHIP The Blue Diamond Growers Foundation, a scholarship fund established in 2010, is now accepting applications for the 2017 - 2018 school year. 2017! The scholarship is open to students living in the almond producing regions of California who plan to pursue a four-year degree in plant sciences, agricultural engineering, agricultural economics or subjects with relevance to almond production.
Completed applications must be received by: March 31 in order to be eligible for consideration. Applications can be downloaded from Blue Diamond’s Grower website at: www.bluediamondgrowers.com THE BEE BOX 32 Almond Facts on the landscape. on the storesout or pollen nectar as not much far as usually is there as important still storesare winter colder and days on some be clustering can still there north, not the in For beekeepers sisters. younger their food raise to into stores winter the converting and queen the alive keeping of solely for purpose the raised team aspecial as bees winter of these away, In think laying. you can starts queen once that bees of new spring feed generation the long enough live to yet still winter the through cluster to must resources have the They weeks. than rather for live to months capability have the and bees summer from physiologically differ bees winter that realize people don’t Many ventilation? adequate allowing equipment the is stores and have of plenty winter they Do productive? and queen the healthy Is levels? mite have low fed? they Do well bees the Are point. this to up your honey leads bees manage to year all doing been you have Everything beekeepers. (and all) commercial for road the hits when rubber of year the time the is This Winter isComing Bee InformedPartnership Photo courtesyofthe there isnoavailableforage. colonies arefedheavilyas Holding yardinCA.Herethe KAREN RENNICH KAREN Box Bee The
NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016 will see them, the almonds will be blooming. be will almonds the them, see will we time next for The possible movement orchards. the into as prepared as and possible as healthy colonies as the year. We’re last to compared get beekeepers the helping October in loads mite have increased seen some teams but September We in low levels mite were seeing August. in starting levels mite these We track closely almonds. into and winter the it through colonies hope make to those if must applied be treatments emergency elevated, still of year. Varroa are levels If time low be to this levels for Varroa mite critical It is Florida. and California Texas, in sampling have teams we still this, Iwrite As Minnesota. and Dakota North Idaho, Washington, Oregon, in assessments of round colony health last their have making been teams transfer technical Our in January. almonds into sheds) before the moving (in winter a milder south) or the have (in grow to bees the allows This north. the in sheds controlled climate or into go overwinter to head south beekeepers’ of commercial our Many Out intheField Texas Training In late October, we had the wonderful opportunity to train new prospective technical transfer teams at the honey bee lab in College Station, Texas. As some of our team members move on to other jobs or academic callings, we had a chance to meet and work with some exciting and talented new team members. Part of the training involved instructing them on how to consistently and accurately evaluate a colony, take a sample, and record the data in sometimes less than ideal circumstances (hot weather, fire ant hills all around the colonies and thigh high grass). It was fun and everyone was excited to participate. We hope they get to meet our beekeepers in the new year and they will certainly will be ready and sampling in almonds. Ventral view of a Varroa mite. These are the mites responsible for so many honey bee colony deaths. Photo courtesy of the Bee Informed Partnership
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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 33 THE BEE BOX 34 Almond Facts operations because we know that they have a measurable have ameasurable they that we know because operations more with working and ground on the get them teams, new create needed to are funds additional possible, as beekeepers many as service to try teams our world. As the job best have in the We truly meet new participants. to thrilled we are and 5years for us more than with been who have some beekeepers serve to continue to excited We are grateful. we are For country. of the this, areas other to teams transfer technical the expand to beekeepers commercial from requests We receiving are of growth. atime into entering is Partnership Informed Bee The A Time of andGivingThanks
NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016 Bee InformedPartnership Photo courtesyofthe members toassessacolony. team) trainsnewtechteam Ben Sallmann(CAtech Thank you from all of us. you all from Thank and now can. you adifference make to want We all http://igg.me/at/beetechteams campaign: our donate or to share link deductible. Here the is tax fully is gift anonprofit, your we are since and teams our of one support of the into go will dollar Every impact. have ameasurable also will teams our support to gift Your of us. think them, of give to what think cannot and everything who has you haveif someone your family in approaches, season holiday the As teams. current new and of the money support in raise to campaign crowdfunding at a hand our trying are time, we For first impact. the
“Calm Action” Sets Example CFBF President Lends Advice to Young Leaders
Citing Blue Diamond’s “calm actions rather than chaotic reaction” to a dramatic price plunge amid market turbulence during the 2015-2016 crop marketing season as the key elements in price recovery, Board Chairman Dan Cummings, speaking to the Young Leader graduating class of 2016, said, “Those actions speak to our cooperative’s century of leadership in bringing calm actions to industry changes.”
Cummings spoke of renewed plantings and record crops the impact of government regulations and policies on for all nut crops in a sharp rebound from last year’s market agriculture, and “seeing how almond growing, processing turmoil. As a result, he said, we are doubling resources and marketing all come together.” for our Almond Innovation Center to develop even more Jerry Rai, young leader from Selma in District 8, felt it high-margin outlets for your crops. We intend to continue was “a great experience learning how the co-op works and to be the industry leader in processing and marketing, and meeting the people – their knowledge is amazing!” grower returns.” Steve Van Duyn, board member and chairman of the The Class of ‘16 gathered for a graduation dinner the Young Leader Program, thanked the graduates for their evening before the annual growers’ meeting in Modesto participation and commitment, and encouraged them on November 16. Seventeen young growers and seven to stay involved in Blue Diamond activities and leadership financial services representatives attended to receive roles. He pointed out that more than 500 growers have their certificates of completion. The class had visited the completed the Young Leader Program and that three state capitol to meet with legislators and advocates for current members of the board are graduates of the agriculture, toured Blue Diamond’s Sacramento, Salida program: Chairman Dan Cummings, Steve Van Duyn and Turlock plants; met with Blue Diamond executives and and Kevin Fondse. staff to learn about almond processing and marketing, and visited two tree nurseries to see how almond trees Board member Fondse thanked retiring board members are propagated. Clinton Shick and Elaine Rominger, and former board member Gerry Rominger, “for their support of the Young Asked to tell the dinner gathering what stood out most Leader Program from its inception. Their foresight and in their year in the program, the graduates highlighted leadership were instrumental in getting the program started product innovation, co-op interaction with growers, and becoming the success that it is.” dedication of the staff to their jobs and the growers,
36 Almond Facts NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Young Leader Class of 2016
Guest speaker Paul Wenger, president of the California “Tonight is a starting point for you,” he said, urging the Farm Bureau Federation, and an almond grower from young growers to get involved in political action and advocacy the Modesto area, made a powerful case and plea for for agriculture. Citing the struggles over water, Wenger said, grower support of political and regulatory advocacy at “We get more crop per drop than anyone else in the world.” the state and federal levels. “We cannot just sit back and But policy makers think farmers are water wasters, he added, complain about the regulations and policies that impact pointing out that agriculture needs to convince the public and our businesses,” he said. “That accomplishes nothing. We government of how efficient farmers really are. have to invest not only in our crop but also in public policy Speaking as a third-generation farmer, Wenger said, “If we and regulation by supporting organizations that speak are going to be able to carry on the tradition and pass our for agriculture, such as the California Farm Bureau. The farms and way of life on to the next generation, we must people who make policy do not know what we do or what get involved in outreach programs. We have a battle on our goes into producing the food they eat. They do not know hands! We have to be better leaders in Sacramento and the risks we take. We need to explain how relevant we are.” Washington, DC. As a Blue Diamond member, you have a brand to protect. So I urge you now to invest in your future.”
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 37 TIME TO CONSIDER 38 Almond Facts in areas with higher NOW pressure. In Kern County, Kern NOW In higher pressure. with areas in needed nuts is of mummy reduction agreater that shown has (USDA-ARS) Siegel Joel Farms) and (Paramount however, Recent research, Higbee conducted by Brad per tree. mummies or fewer two be should there levels, percent NOW damage of 2 standard orderTherefore, industry meet to in the percent 5 NOWdamage. equals tree per five mummies words, other In NOW from expected. be should damage 1percent tree, nut the mummy for in left every that Valley. showed Sacramento and research The Joaquin San the plots throughout from collected data the reviewing and recommendation developed was research by performing This per tree. two nut mummy average than count less to the reduce to is practice industry recommended The larvae. second flight and for food source adults season in- the are and for larvae, point developing pupae and the overwintering the as nuts serve These reduced. be can emerge), to at harvest (when NOW begin damage moths before them mid-March destroying and tree the from nuts ‘mummy’ the By removing sanitation. is populations NOW wayreduce to over-wintering most effective The Orangeworm (NOW) Control NavelWinter Sanitationfor http://ucipm.ucdavis.edu/. Website: UC on IPM the link Sampling” “Spur at the found be can More information considered. be should sprays dormant beyond thresholds, are populations If time. this at identified be can also and spurs around concentrate often eggs Mite period. dormant the in control to easiest the is pest This populations. scale high identify to only summer of the middle the in dieback” limb “lower experiencing orchards numerous observed Ihave period. dormant the during performed be should mites and Walnut for and Jose Scale San sampling Spur Considerations Pest Management issues. for identified practices management developing and pruning, maintenance, equipment and orchard include year. Activities cropping coming the for of preparation atime is period dormant the time, of aquieter appearance the having Although Time Time UCCE UCCE DAVID DOLL,
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Nut Crop Pomology Nut Crop
Farm any mummies that are on the ground. on the are that mummies any destroy or and fewer nut two to mummy per tree counts average reduce still should cooler,in areas low pressure Growers heat unit/degree higher day areas. pressure, high in for recommended orchards are sanitation ground and of tree Therefore, standards higher at harvest. expect to NOW less the damage ground), and tree (both orchard the within fewer the mummies that indicates research the of all of location, Valley. Sacramento the in Regardless some Valley micro-climates and Joaquin San southern of the characteristic generally is that lowerand rainfall days due more to by location degree vary will pressure depends.” Insect “it is answer short The nuts per tree? 0.7 mummy than less to sanitize to needs state the across everyone mean that does data, this By reviewing orchards. on 50 plots established from data reviewing period conducted over a5-year research from drawn were results These standard. 2percentabove industry the NOW damage increased per tree mummies ground 8.9 than more having – NOWdamage influences ground on the of mummies quantity the found that also They of 2percent. standard industry below the NOW damage order keep to in 0.7 nuts per tree mummy than less be to has for sanitation standard the have foundthey that Gurreet Brar, CSU Fresno. CSU Brar, Gurreet varieties. soft-shell to similarly managed be should and NOW harbor can also pictures, as Hard-shells, pressure. pest reduce to destroyed and tree the from removed be should nuts These Orangeworm. Navel of location overwintering the as serve nuts Mummy Advisor , Merced County , Merced Annual Soil Sampling If managing a salt problem, determining soil amendments or refining a nutrient program, soil sampling should be considered. Soils should be sampled down Almonds to five feet in even increments to determine the concentration of salts and texture. After sampling, the soil salinity values should be averaged to determine the root-zone’s salinity. If the soil’s EC is over 1.5 dS/m or the levels of sodium, chloride or boron are greater than 5.0 ESP, 5.0 meq/l, or 0.50 ppm, respectively, than a leaching program should be considered. If pH is beginning to change, consider amendments to assist in improving it to around Pistachios 7. Lime can be used as a winter application to raise the pH while soil sulfur or other acidifiers will lower. If identifying soils with high residual nitrate, evaluate the fertilization program to determine what has caused the excess and plan to modify the future year’s program. Address any issues with low levels of phosphorous or zinc. Winter fertilization plans typically include potassium. This cation is Walnuts removed at a rate of 92 pounds of potassium oxide (K2O) with every 1,000 kernel pounds harvested and should be replaced to maintain productivity. Winter application strategies, however, should vary based on soil type. Fields with high cation exchange capacity And Everything In-Between (CEC) soils (>15 meq/100g of soil) should consider fall to early winter applications of potassium sulfate We’ve Got You Covered! or potassium muriate. Applying it early will utilize any rainfall to assist moving the cation into the rootzone. Lower CEC soils should have the potassium applied later in 800-654-5854 the winter, with applications on the sandiest soils (CEC<5 meq/100g) www.davewilson.com NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016 Almond Facts 39 TIME TO CONSIDER 40 Almond Facts potassium levels. potassium tree adequate maintaining in help to assist in-season and dormant between applications split consider should CECs low with Soils of potassium. rate the higher the CEC, the higher the bloom. Furthermore, as late as occurring calcium can assist with leaching boron and sodium, while while sodium, boron and leaching with assist can calcium of Applications fertilizers. and amendments of soil timing the mind in keep Also, of diseases. root risk the increase may this because for soil prolonged the periods saturate not to careful Be process. leaching the aid will rainfall water, as subsequent irrigation with early the profile refill root-zone. below the to moveto Ideally, it best is salts way best the is or more frequent irrigation rain through either water applied of quantities smaller full, is profile the Once profile. thesoil fill to mustwater applied be Enough (mid-January). expansion root prior to period dormant the in early process this begin to important it is period, dormant the during leach to planning If Dormant LeachingProgram Gurreet Brar, CSUFresno. time todetermineiftreatmentisneeded. should bemonitoredduringthedormantperiod Scale feedingcankilllimbs.Populations
NOVEMBER |DECEMBER 2016 rate and application procedure for type. procedure your soil application and rate for amendment arecommended or agronomist advisor farm UCCE your local Contact wasteful. be will program leaching the priorto potassium applying some soils, in rain events. Wounds can be susceptible up to two weeks weeks two up to susceptible be Wounds events. can rain during spores disperse that fungi by pathogenic infections avoid to forecast not the wound is in when rain only Prune four or year five. around typically increase, to load begins when crop split the will branches These branches. weak and included to wood leads which of scaffolds, proximity close and angles branch tight address needed to may be trees andsecond leaf of first some structuring Nevertheless, able produce is to crop. that canopy due increase to mostly is This yields. larger, earlier to lead can on trees younger pruning reduced that shown has Research months. winter the during occurs often trees young and of mature Pruning Mature Orchards of Pruning Young and
discussed it to reduce pest and disease pressure. UCCE research out of the Sacramento Valley has shown a 6 percent decrease in NOW infestation in the upper canopy in pruned trees due to better insecticide spray distribution in the upper canopy. The Final Thought I wish you and your families a very happy holiday season. I am looking forward to seeing many of you at The Annual Research Conference of the Almond Board of California held in Sacramento on December 6th-8th as well as other meetings across the state.
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after pruning, with larger wounds taking the longest to heal. Work out Fewer Self-Propelled Harvesters of Australia has suggested that acrylic Moving Parts paints provide some wound protection. P.T.O. Harvesters Other products (e.g. latex paint, Easy tree seal) have not been shown to be Maintenance Self-Propelled Air Cab Sweepers effective in both California or Australia Self-Propelled Sweepers conditions. Pruning as late as leaf out High Resale will have no impact on tree growth. Tractor Mount Sweepers Mature tree pruning may also be MORE HARVEST PROFIT AT A LOWER COST P.T.O. Blowers needed. Many are aware of the multiple research trials that have shown no yield benefit from pruning mature trees. There are, however, other reasons to prune mature trees, including: easier access, worker safety, increasing the amount of light to the orchard floor to assist with drying, and 100 Loren Avenue, Chico, CA 95928 to remove broken, dead and diseased (530) 891-6214 | Fax (530) 891-5905 | www.weissmcnair.com limbs. Another reason that is often not
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Fresno, CA Fresno, or 559-485-9496 559-779-4888 Call machine $15,000 pickup almond 9500 (1) Ramacher each $35,000 hours- 6,000 one with hours, 5,000 one with sweepers- with (2) OMC 1998 Monoboom shakers SALE: FOR (209)838-3115 Bob Contact or BO. $2,500 Mowercondition. (offset). Fair Virismo 9’ SALE FOR at 209-678-0788 Ron Piazza Contact Complete. motor. Fan with Shell H.P.60 Sturdavent $4000 condition good sizer, 4 Stage pricing. and for pictures CALL wheels float 11ft.w/ Hydraulic Orchard FREE! motor no belt, leg 32” Air 500 Jessee FREE! pieces. In 12” cups. 10 Elevator. ‘Height lift R &LEasy SALE: FOR 681-3501 (530) 795-4858, Phone (530) condition. excellent in equipment All -$14,500 engine diesel Tower, Kubota Pruning 25’ Prune-Rite -$20,000 head bar 7.5model, tine Sweeper, 2002 40 JD Weiss McNair - $17,500engine J FOR SALE FOR 777-3292 (209) Dan call Merced, in Located - $500 size tire for fenders 18.4 of Nelson x16.1Pair -$1001-16.9 50% x24 Goodyear -$300 on rims 2-16.9 ND x24 Firestone -$200 wts. wheel JD lb 2-500 -$800 60% on rims 2-18.4 tires x26Firestone blower -$2,000 B95 with 8, TR mount sweeper tractor head, Weiss auger -$500 Case 480D for Bucket fits nuts Loader 3-YD -$15,000 Augers and Unloader with HP335 Cart Ressevoir Jackrabbit 2004 SALE: FOR ackrabbit 20-20 Elevator with diesel diesel with Elevator 20-20 ackrabbit $1500
submitted to Blue Diamond be may and of 10 lines amaximum to limited are Ads own. may members ventures commercial of advertising means additional an as — not use personal for ads Classified Blue Diamond of use exclusive the for are section this in listings Free or Nick (209) 648-8019 (209) or Nick 740-1720 (209) Victor Call/Text Please $3,000 ft; 30 Implement Tooth Spring 1300E Allis-Chalmers PTO; $3,000 Tree Sprayer Gallon 500 and $4,000 Sprayer Tree Orchard Rears Gallon 500 $2,500 Sweeper; Flory $3,000 14” over; +Drive belt 25hp Engine Kohler Elevator Almond each (2); $3,000 Carts Almond Orchard 318; $5,000 Machine Pickup Ramacher $12,000 9610; Machine Pickup Ramacher $12,000 5,750hrs; Monoboom Shaker $12,000 ‘06; Pruner Orchard Prunerite SALE: FOR 209-988-1388 Garret call For more information, Satake by repaired and inspected fully Machine Meat Channel 410 II DE Master 4 Scan Satake 2001 SALE FOR Call 209-537-9491 $2.00 each planted Just transplant. to Nemoguard on trees 714 Nonpareil-Aldrich SALE FOR 209-485-3250 Call apiece $2000 augers- with dump bottom Trailers Almond offer or make -$5000 elevator Almond SALE FOR September &November. September May, July, March, January, of: 10th the by submitted be must listings classified placement, To issues. guarantee consecutive two run will ads otherwise, advised Unless Email: [email protected] Editor: at: editor or the Fax: (916) 325-2880 (916) Fax: at: Montgomery Cassandra contact Or 95812 CA P.O. 1768, Sacramento, Box Blue Diamond members.
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