Almond Board of California opens 2026 Board of Directors election

The Almond Board of California (ABC) has launched the 2026 Board of Directors election cycle, inviting eligible growers and handlers across the state to declare candidacy and vote. The election process opened February 6, 2026, and runs through May 21, with results to be announced June 2. Candidate declarations are open through April 1. Individuals interested in running must submit a letter of intent or grower petition by the deadline. Eligibility for independent grower and handler seats will be verified against 2025-2026 crop year handler-grower lists. Several independent seats are up for election in 2026:

• Independent Grower #1 for a one-year swing term
• Independent Handler #1 for a three-year term
• Independent Handler #3 for a one-year swing term

Alternate seats for each position are also available. ABC encourages participation from across the industry, including women, minorities and people with disabilities, to ensure broad representation. Ballots will be mailed to eligible voters on April 21. Voters should confirm their contact information with their handler to ensure proper placement on the grower list. Replacement ballots can be requested or picked up from ABC if needed. Board members serve as key decision-makers in research investments, marketing strategy, environmental stewardship and compliance with the Federal Marketing Order. The board is composed of five grower representatives and five handler representatives, each supported by an alternate.

Election results will be announced June 2. Newly elected members will begin their terms on August 1, 2026. Complete election details, requirements and forms are available on the ABC website.