Lake County Walnut Symposium draws attention to orchard management

On Thursday, March 21, 2024, the Scotts Valley Women’s Club in Lakeport, California, will host the Lake County Walnut Symposium, which will discuss the latest developments in walnut orchard management.

Organized by the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE), the Lake County Department of Agriculture and the California Walnut Board (CWB), the event will gather experts and stakeholders to provide the latest insights.

The symposium will start with a welcome from Clebson Gonçalves, diversified agriculture advisor for UCCE, who will serve as the session moderator. The agenda offers informative sessions covering a range of topics vital to walnut growers’ success.

Jhalendra Rijal, area IPM advisor, will discuss the pressing issue of flatheaded borer infestations in walnut orchards. Clarissa A Reyes, orchard systems advisor, will provide insights into whole orchard recycling, while Kamyar Aram, specialty crops advisor, will discuss the effectiveness of cover crops.

Brad Hanson, professor for UC Davis Cooperative Extension, will update participants on whole orchard weed management, while Cindy Kron, North Coast area IPM advisor, will delve into the findings on testing new lures for walnut husk fly. The symposium also offers certification and training updates, information on regulatory changes and NRCS programs and initiatives.

Robert Verloop, CEO of the California Walnut Commission, will offer the final session and provide an update on the California Walnut Industry. The event will conclude with a panel discussion and attendee engagement session, which will foster collaborative dialogue among participants.

Registration is required and is now open and can be completed online.