Dec 18, 20252025 Almond Conference highlights: Innovation, leadership and key industry shifts
The 2025 Almond Conference returned to the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center, drawing thousands of growers, processors, researchers and service providers for three days of industry updates, hands-on exhibits and networking. The energy in the halls reflected both excitement for innovation and awareness of ongoing challenges in almond production.
State of the Industry addressed growth and strategy
Almond Board of California (ABC) CEO Clarice Turner set the tone in her State of the Industry address, emphasizing collaboration, sustainability and long-term growth. The session, themed “Cultivating a Healthier Future,” acknowledged industry challenges while highlighting the board’s focus on innovation and global demand-driving efforts.
It included a panel discussion with past and current board directors and featured economic insights from Scott Clemons and a global marketing update from Emily Fleischmann and Craig Duerr, showcasing ABC’s evolving marketing approach and 75 years of support under the Federal Marketing Order.
Sessions explored pollination, varieties and policy
Conference sessions covered a mix of technical and market-focused topics.
In “Honey Bees & Pollination,” attendees learned about the latest research on stocking rates for self-compatible almond varieties, the state of pollination services and the impact of pollinator endangered species on orchard operations.
The “Self-Compatible Varieties” session offered insights from a decade of breeding trials, including gene-edited Nonpareil, helping growers anticipate which varieties to plant next and the potential benefits for production efficiency.
The conference also addressed policy, pests and profitability.
The session “Navigating Headwinds” examined trade barriers, rodent infestations, regulatory changes and crop estimate accuracy, while highlighting advocacy initiatives and collaborative efforts to strengthen market conditions and support the competitiveness of California almonds.
Board announcements and awards
A major announcement from the Almond Board of California drew significant attention: the decision to discontinue funding for USDA’s Objective Measurement Report, a decades-long source of crop forecasts. The move signaled a shift in how growers, handlers and the wider market will track production, with implications for planning, market strategy and research priorities.
The conference also celebrated industry leadership. Ross Blackburn received the Almond Achievement Award, while Blue Diamond Grower Christine Gemperle earned the Almond Technical Achievement Award, recognizing their contributions to innovation and operational excellence.
Exhibits and networking highlighted innovation
Attendees explored over 100 exhibits showcasing the latest technology, equipment and services, while networking mixers and panel discussions allowed professionals to share insights and tackle challenges collectively.
A clear theme emerged across the event: the almond industry is navigating a rapidly changing landscape, balancing innovation with environmental stewardship. From sustainability workshops to regulatory updates, the conference reinforced the importance of informed decision-making and collaboration as growers prepare for the future.
