The California almond industry is resilient, but input cost, labor and water access remain constant worries for growers. The Almond Alliance is working at the state and federal level to give a voice to the growers of over 80% of the world’s almond supply. Matthew Malcolm with California Ag Network took the time to talk with Alliance Chair Blake Vann to learn about what’s going on in their organization. Watch this quick video and learn more in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
Tag: Almond Alliance
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Legal Compliance in the Almond Industry
California can feel like a legal minefield with the potential lawsuits that almond growers can face. Knowing the latest laws and regulations, and how to be compliant with them, is more important than ever. Henderson Arreola Partner Stacy Henderson spoke with Matthew Malcolm to discuss some tactics for how growers can stay ahead of regulations. Watch this quick video and learn more in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
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Shifting Economic Factors Impact Almond Growers
The changing economic landscape is affecting growers across the board, and almonds are no exception. Factors like inflation are having an impact on orchards and are pushing back growers’ break-even years after planting. Matthew Malcolm with California Ag Network spoke recently with Matt Woolf of Terrain Ag to discuss the changing economics of almond growing. Watch this quick video and read more in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
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Almond Market Reaching Stability
Bearing acreage for California almonds has declined for the first time since 1995 and total acreage has been declining for over four years as the business reaches equilibrium. However, growers in California will continue to contribute about 80% of the global supply as production in other countries remains flat. Matthew Malcolm with California Ag Network talked to the Almond Board of California President and CEO Clarice Turner about these recent developments in the almond industry. Watch this quick video and learn more in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
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High Heat Could Lead to Early Almond Harvest
High early heat could result in a smaller nut set for almonds, though some larger hulls are being found. Meanwhile, orchards enjoyed a good bloom and growers may expect to harvest as early as July. Bountiful.ag Founder and CEO Megan Nunes spoke with Matthew Malcolm from California Ag Network about these findings in their first almond crop forecast of the 2026 season. Watch this video and learn more in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
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Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo Awarded Almond Champion of the Year
The Almond Alliance is pleased to announce Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo as the recipient of the 2025 Almond Champion of the Year Award. Assemblywoman Macedo is being recognized for her leadership on key issues affecting California agriculture and the almond industry. She has advanced efforts to address abandoned agricultural properties and invasive species, supported improvements to water infrastructure and wildfire prevention, and worked to reduce fuel costs for Californians. Her practical approach and engagement on agricultural policy reflect a strong commitment to the state’s farming communities.“Assemblywoman Macedo has taken a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach to some of the biggest challenges facing California agriculture,” said Alexi Rodriguez, CEO of the Almond Alliance. “Her focus on abandoned land, water infrastructure, and wildfire prevention demonstrates an understanding of the pressures facing the almond industry today.”
The Almond Champion of the Year Award is presented annually to individuals who demonstrate leadership in education, coalition building, partnerships, and the advancement of policies that support California agriculture, including the almond industry. Assemblywoman Macedo’s efforts reflect the purpose and spirit of this recognition.
Past recipients of this prestigious award include Assemblymember Juan Alanis, Department of Water Resources, Assemblymember Adam Gray, Assemblymember Heath Flora, former USDA State Executive Director of Farm Service Agency Connie Conway, Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua, and CDFA Undersecretary Christie Birdsong.
The award will be formally presented to Assemblywoman Macedo at the California Almond Political Action Committee’s Annual Modesto Fundraiser, taking place at Del Rio Country Club on November 5, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. This event brings together members of the almond community, FFA students, elected officials, and special guests.
For RSVPs or more information, please contact Annie Romero at 209-300-7140 or aromero@almondalliance.org.
About the Almond Alliance
Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture.
Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org.
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Four of the Biggest Challenges for California Tree Nut Growers also Bring Opportunities
They say every cloud has a silver lining, and perhaps that could be said of the current market dynamics of the California tree nut industry. While the ominous clouds of tariffs, increasing regulatory burdens and limited water availability impact growers ability to farm everyday, there are opportunities that come with each of these challenges. Watch this brief interview as Terrain Ag’s Specialty Crop Analyst Matt Woolf shares these opportunities with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network based on his recent presentation at the annual Convention of the Almond Alliance of California.
Please thank this video’s sponsor SQM Specialty Plant Nutrition for their industry support.
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Almond Alliance Honors Industry Leaders and Advocates
The Almond Alliance proudly concluded its 43rd Annual Convention, held April 28 through May 1, 2025, at the iconic Town & Country Resort in San Diego. Under the theme “Making It Happen,” this year’s convention brought together almond industry leaders, innovators, and advocates nationwide to celebrate progress, share insights, and recognize excellence in every corner of the almond community.
A highlight of the convention was the annual awards ceremony, which honored individuals and organizations that exemplify leadership, advocacy, and a commitment to quality across the almond industry.
Junior Almond Advocate Award: Josiah Wenger
The Junior Almond Advocate Award celebrates a young leader passionate about agriculture and the almond industry. This year’s honoree, Josiah Wenger, is a 10-year-old student at Hart Ransom Elementary and a proud member of Shilo 4-H. Josiah’s imaginative storytelling earned him the title of 4th-grade winner in the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom’s “Imagine This” story writing contest for his creative submission, “Not Just Another Nut Story.”Inspired by his father’s work at an almond huller, Josiah’s story brought the almond industry to life for readers. He particularly enjoyed researching almond facts, crafting a catchy title, and touring his dad’s workplace to gain behind-the-scenes insight into almond processing. The Almond Alliance Board of Directors is honored to recognize Josiah’s talent, curiosity, and advocacy as this year’s Junior Almond Advocate.
Junior Almond Advocate Award Josiah Wenger Good Manufacturing Practice Audit Awards
The Almond Alliance’s Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) program provides almond-specific food safety guidelines designed to assist hullers, shellers, and processors in meeting regulatory and customer expectations. Through our voluntary, unannounced audits, members showcase their commitment to excellence in food safety.The following companies successfully completed GMP audits this year and were recognized at the convention:
Processors: Almond Ace Packing, Blue Diamond Growers, California Custom Processing, LLC, Capay Canyon Ranch, Fisher Nut Company, LLC, Golden State Almonds Inc., Grizzly Nut, LLC, Harris Woolf Almonds, Hilltop Ranch, Inc., JSS Almonds, Mariani Nut Company, Montpelier Nut Company, Purity Organics, Riverwest Processing Inc., RPAC, LLC, Stewart & Jasper, Sterilization & Fumigation Services, Treehouse California Almonds, Valley Pride, Vann Family Orchards
Huller/Shellers: Braden Hulling, C.F. Koehnen & Sons, Central Valley Almond Association, Chico Nut Company, Cortez Growers Association, Golden Empire Shelling, Inc., Golden Valley Almond Hulling & Shelling, Inc., Hilltop Ranch, Inc., Kernpareil, Inc., Montpelier Nut Company, Parreira Almond Processing, Paiva Hulling & Shelling, Pohl & Holmes, Inc., Salida Hulling Association, Stewart & Jasper Orchards, Superior Almond Hulling, Treehouse California Almonds
Associate Member of the Year: Chandler Automation
The Associate Member of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding partner whose dedication strengthens both the Almond Alliance and the broader industry. This year’s award was presented to Chandler Automation for its exceptional support, technical innovation, and enduring commitment to the almond sector.Led by Sean Chandler, the company is renowned for exceeding expectations in serving its customers and advancing industry standards. Their contributions to the Almond Alliance and Almond PAC have played a vital role in shaping critical initiatives and propelling the industry forward.
Associate Member of the Year, Sean Chandler of Chandler Automation Members of the Year: Blake Vann & Katie Staack
In an unprecedented year, the Almond Alliance sought experienced leaders to provide stability and guidance. This year’s Member of the Year Award was jointly awarded to Blake Vann and Katie Staack in recognition of their extraordinary service.Together, they stepped into leadership roles, overseeing CEO responsibilities and navigating the transition to new executive leadership. Their steady hands and clear vision helped ensure continued momentum and unity within the Alliance during a pivotal period.
Almond Alliance Members of the Year Blake Vann and Katie Staack About the Almond Alliance
Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture.Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org.
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California Almond Industry Reaches Record Sales with Opportunities for Worldwide Market Growth
While tariffs and other trade barriers remain a high concern, the California almond industry has been experiencing record sales growth and shipments worldwide. The Almond Board of California (ABC) remains optimistic for both the near and longterm future of the industry, continuing investments in new market development and research on new ways for consumers to enjoy this nutrient-dense product. Watch this video as ABC CEO Clarice Turner provides insight on what almond growers and marketers can anticipate with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network as shared at the recent annual Convention of the Almond Alliance of California.
Please thank this video’s sponsor SQM Specialty Plant Nutrition for their industry support.
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Almond Alliance Announces Alexi Rodriguez as New CEO
The Almond Alliance is proud to announce the appointment of Alexi Rodriguez as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2025. With a distinguished career in the almond industry and a deep commitment to agricultural advocacy, Rodriguez will lead the Alliance into its next chapter of growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Alexi Rodriguez as the next CEO of the Almond Alliance,” said Blake Vann, Chair of the Almond Alliance. “Her proven leadership and deep understanding of the almond industry make her the ideal choice to guide our organization into the future. Alexi has been a steadfast advocate for the industry and we are confident that under her leadership the Almond Alliance will continue to thrive and champion the interests of our members.”
Rodriguez brings over 15 years of experience in the industry, having served in various high-impact positions, including Chair for the Almond Board of California (ABC) and Director of Operations for Campos Brothers Farms. Her leadership has driven strategic growth, operational efficiency, and innovation across the industry. Beyond her operational roles, Rodriguez has strongly advocated for the almond industry on regulatory and compliance matters.
“I’m excited and honored to be selected to lead the Almond Alliance,” said Alexi Rodriguez. “I’m looking forward to utilizing my knowledge and experience to advocate for this great industry and connect with industry members as we navigate the challenges ahead.”
Rodriguez’s appointment follows an extensive search process, underscoring the Almond Alliance’s commitment to finding a leader who embodies the organization’s vision and values. Her leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategies to strengthen the Alliance’s role as the voice of American almonds. Rodriguez is uniquely positioned to lead the Almond Alliance as it continues to promote the interests of its members and drive the industry toward a sustainable and prosperous future.
Alexi being interview by Pacific Nut Producer Editor Matthew Malcolm while serving as Chair of the Almond Board of California About the Almond Alliance
Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture.Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org.