Pre-harvest water assessment workshops open to California tree nut growers

In preparation for new federal water safety regulations, the Western Tree Nut Association (WTNA), in partnership with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR), is offering a series of free pre-harvest water assessment regional workshops for tree nut growers.

The workshops aim to help growers understand and comply with the Produce Safety Rule under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). The final rule on pre-harvest agricultural water requirements took effect in July 2024, with the compliance deadline starting April 7, 2025.

The workshops began in early April in Madera and will continue through May at the following locations:

• April 17, 9 a.m. – Winters
• April 28, 9 a.m. – Hanford
• April 29, 9 a.m. – Wasco
• April 30, 9 a.m. – Manteca
• May 29, 1:30 p.m. – Chico

The sessions are designed for all tree nut growers subject to FSMA’s Produce Safety Rule, especially those operating large farms with over $500,000 in annual produce sales, who must demonstrate compliance during inspections this year. Small farms ($250,000 to $500,000 in annual produce sales) and very small farms will have phased deadlines over the next two years.

CDFA inspectors and UCANR representatives will walk attendees through pre-harvest water assessment requirements and provide practical guidance on adapting practices to meet regulatory standards. Inspectors will also review post-harvest water rules that are currently enforceable. Each session includes a Q&A segment to address growers’ specific operational concerns.

The first workshop, held in Madera, featured presentations from CDFA Senior Environmental Scientist Angela Terrazzas and Produce Safety Program specialist Briana Russell. WTNA President Roger A. Isom opened the event, emphasizing collaboration with CDFA and support for growers navigating regulatory changes. WTNA Assistant Vice President Priscilla Rodriguez closed by announcing an upcoming tree nut-specific water assessment template.

Attendance is free, but registration is required. To RSVP, email mandy@agprocessors.org or call (559) 455-9272. Workshop addresses will be provided upon registration. Additional workshops are also planned for the coming months.