Almond Board tour gives California regulators firsthand look at almond farming
Sixteen California regulatory staff toured almond orchards to learn about irrigation, crop protection, stewardship and almond co-products.
The Almond Board of California (ABC) hosted 16 regulatory staff May 8 for its 18th annual Environmental Stewardship Tour, giving attendees a firsthand look at almond production and the regulatory challenges growers face.
Representatives from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, State Water Resources Control Board and Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board joined grower Mike Dougherty and his daughter Emma at Chamisal Creek Ranch in Arbuckle, California.
During more than four hours in the field, participants toured young and mature orchards and discussed irrigation, nutrient management, crop protection and challenges associated with replanting orchards. ABC staff also discussed research and efforts to translate findings into on-farm practices.
“These tours create space for candid conversations and help show that we’re open and we’re here to share the real-world realities of farming,” said Danielle Veenstra, senior manager of global stewardship for ABC.
The annual tour is intended to give regulatory staff a better understanding of the factors almond growers consider throughout the production season and provide opportunities for direct discussions with growers.
The group also visited Dunnigan Hills Huller & Sheller to see what happens after almond harvest. Participants learned how almond hulls and shells are used for livestock feed and other value-added products.
Dan Sonke, Environmental Stewardship Workgroup chair, said seeing and handling the products helped participants understand almond co-product uses.
The tour concluded with discussions about the connections among farming practices, economics and environmental outcomes.
Photos courtesy of Almond Board of California (ABC).