MAY–JUN 2025
Contents
8 FIELD TEAM 10 MARKET REPORT 14 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL 22 CORNERING THE MARKET 26 MEMBERSHIP BASICS 28 GROWING THE GOODNESS 34 ADVOCACY REPORT 36 IN YOUR ORCHARD 42 CLASSIFIED ADS
Tangy and tasty, Cherry Slurpee almonds are a must try! (page 24)
Features 6 President’s Corner
26 Direct Deposit Drive Blue Diamond is launching a direct deposit drive to encourage grower participation before mandatory enrollment begins at harvest 2026. The transition marks a complete policy shift that aims to streamline payments and enhance security for growers. 28 Blue Diamond Board Service Chat with John Monroe As John Monroe (district 2 board director) prepares to finish his service on the Blue Diamond Board of Directors, he reflects on his nine years of service. Learn what it means to serve and what it takes to be a board member.
President and CEO, Kai Bockmann discusses in-orchard pests and provides a synopsis of the virtual Masters webinars. He gives good news on the revamped USDA AMP grant and digs into an update on sales and the newly launched Barista Blend. 14 Interview with Mel Machado In this interview with Mel Machado, you’ll learn all about his new role as Blue Diamond ’s Chief Agricultural Officer and ambassador for the almond industry. Machado is driven to support growers and encourages their deep involvement in the Co-op.
ON THE COVER: The orchards are inching their way toward harvest. Photo credit: Mel Machado
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MAY–JUNE 2025
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