Blue Diamond Almond Facts September-October 2022

This issue of Almond Facts focuses in on the final crop return of 2021, celebrates the $45M USDA grant Blue Diamond was awarded, introduces our limited time holiday flavored snack nuts, and discusses what growers can do to tend their orchards after harvest.

NEWS, VIEWS, AND INDUSTRY INSIGHT

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

This holiday season, we’re getting rid of the “or” as we embrace Naughty AND Nice!

Blue Diamond Receives $45M USDA Grant

Harvest is Over. Now What ?

Final Crop Return

Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication.

SEPT–OCT 2022

Contents

8 FIELD TEAM 10 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL 18 CORNERING THE MARKET 22 GROWING THE GOODNESS 24 ADVOCACY REPORT 30 CULTIVATING SUSTAINABILITY 32 IN YOUR ORCHARD 42 CLASSIFIED ADS

Final Crop Return

Features

6 President’s Corner Each crop year brings its own challenges and opportunities, and little with the 2021 crop year was predictable or ordinary. Let’s take a look at the final crop return of 2021. 22 NEW Holiday Flavors: Naughty & Nice Our two new holiday flavors: Snickerdoodle and Peppermint Cocoa are a little bit naughty but a whole lot of nice! Available at many local grocery stores this season, while supplies last!

30 Blue Diamond Awarded $45M USDA Grant This September, Blue Diamond was awarded $45 million in funds provided by the USDA as part of a massive

climate protection partnership activation. 34 Harvest is Over. Now What ?

Autumn is a time when things slow down in the orchards. Some may still be harvesting, but soon, they will be able to reflect on the year and prepare for the next. To have a successful 2023 harvest, you have set the foundation today. Let’s consider the seven factors needed to start the new year off right.

ON THE COVER: This season grab both Snickerdoodle and Peppermint Cocoa. One for you and one to share. Or, just both for you!

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

Matthew Efird | Fresno Kent Stenderup | Arvin Joe Huston | Monterey Kristin Daley | San Francisco

OFFICERS Mark Jansen, President and CEO Dean LaVallee, Chief Financial Officer/ Chief Operating Officer

ALMOND FACTS STAFF Blue Diamond Growers Communications Department, communications@bdgrowers.com Jillian Luna, Managing Editor Mel Machado, Contributing Photographer Gray Allen, Advertising Sales 916.783.4334 & 916.765.3234

Blue Diamond , the world’s largest processor and marketer of almonds, exports to over 100 countries.

Almond Facts , established in 1922, is published bimonthly by Blue Diamond Growers , 1802 C Street, Sacramento, California 95811. Address all correspondence to the Editor, Almond Facts , P.O. Box 1768, Sacramento, California 95812. Advertising subscription rates provided upon request. Blue Diamond is a registered trademark and marketing brand of Blue Diamond Growers . Other registered trademarks are The Almond People, Smokehouse, Golden State, Celebration, From the Valleys of California, Confetti and Almond Facts . Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication. Blue Diamond reserves the right to refuse advertising. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

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PRESIDENT’S CORNER

2021 Final Crop Return

Each crop year brings its own challenges and opportunities, and little with the 2021 crop year was predictable or ordinary! As many of you experienced, it began with an unexpected freeze during a critical point of the bloom. What’s more, throughout the season, ongoing supply chain issues, complications with shipping, and soaring inflation that drove increased production costs plagued all segments of the industry. It was certainly a challenging year for all of California agriculture. Yet, together, our 112-year-old Blue Diamond Growers cooperative rose to the challenge as only we can, and delivered a superior 2021 crop return to members, as reflected in the table ( below) .

Mark Jansen President & CEO

Overall Average

Average of High Quality

Maximum Possible

Variety

Nonpareil & Sonora Inshell

$2.39

$2.41

$2.44

Nonpareil /Supareil Meats

$2.20

$2.24

$2.30

Sonora Meats

$2.04

$2.10

$2.15

Independence Inshell

$2.00

$2.02

$2.03

Independence Meats

$1.86

$1.88

$1.90

Carmel & Winters

$1.89

$1.91

$1.95

Monterey /Neplus

$1.86

$1.89

$1.94

California /Price /Fritz /Wood Colony

$1.89

$1.91

$1.94

Butte & Padre

$1.90

$1.91

$1.94

Mission

$1.78

$1.82

$1.85

Note: The above rates do not include Volume Premiums, Sustainability Incentives, Domestic Production Activities Deduction (DPAD) or IC-DISC advantages.

ALMOND FACTS

Please note the rates displayed do not include Volume Premiums, Sustainability Incentives, Domestic Production Activities Deduction (DPAD) or IC-DISC advantages which need to be added in. Your actual crop earnings are shown in the box on the last page of your personal grower’s statement. We are once again proud to deliver Blue Diamond ’s return at a record competitive advantage to other handlers in the industry. It’s clear to me, and I hope to each of you, that every Blue Diamond team member feels a personal connection to you, our growers, and a commitment to our co-op’s overall mission to maximize your returns. But as I mentioned in my letter that was included with your 2021 Patronage Dividend, our responsibility to our growers goes far beyond profitably marketing each year’s crop. Two recent developments offer prime examples of the advocacy and “Power in Partnership” that our Blue Diamond co-op contributes to its members and California’s almond industry as a whole. In June, to address the ongoing logistical challenges that were inhibiting the movement of almonds to markets around the world, our Blue Diamond team leaned in to find an innovative solution. Partnering with the Almond Alliance, government, and shipping industry

representatives, we created an “Almond Express” rail link to U.S. ports to ensure more efficient and timely movement of almonds to our customers around the globe. Last month Blue Diamond Growers was awarded $45 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture as part of a historic climate protection initiative. Working with our partners Project Apis m . and Pollinator Partnership, these grants will help amplify and expand the great sustainability work already being done in your orchards. I hope you agree it’s quite an honor to have been selected as one of 70 partners out of 450 proposals submitted to the USDA for this first round of funding. Our faith in each other and in our future is the secret to our success as a co-op. After two years of virtual meetings, I look forward to celebrating in person our collective achievements for our sustainable future on November 16 at Blue Diamond ’s 112th Annual Meeting at the Modesto Centre Plaza. Best of luck with the rest of your harvest activities. See you soon!

Mark Jansen President & CEO

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

FIELD TEAM

Regional Managers

Vice President, Member Relations Mel Machado (209) 545-6222 – Salida (209) 531-6352 – Cellular Director, Member Relations (North) Ben Goudie (209) 225-0413 Director, Member Relations (South)

Glenn, Butte, Tehama, Placer, Yuba & Sutter Christine Ivory, (530) 518-9109

Colusa, Yolo & Solano John Aja, (530) 338-6440

Sacramento, Calaveras, Alameda & San Joaquin West of Austin Rd Ben Goudie, (209) 225-0413 Stanislaus County North of Tuolumne River & West of San Joaquin River Justin Elam, (209) 303-7306 San Joaquin East of Austin Rd; Stanislaus South of Tuolumne, East of San Joaquin River & West of Hwy 99; Merced North of the Merced River, West of Hwy 99 KC Stone, (209) 596-5375 Stanislaus South of Tuolumne River, East of 99 & Merced North of Merced River, East of 99) Brian Noeller, (209) 417-2010 Merced County, West of 99 & South of Merced River, East of 99, North of Hwy 140 Trent Voss, (209) 470-5981 Merced County, South of Hwy 140 & Madera County, North of Ave 12 Kenny Miyamoto, (209) 323-8454 Southern Madera County & Northern Fresno County Ashley Correia, (559) 356-1584

Christopher Miller (559) 310-5085

Sutter

Southern Fresno & Kings Counties Christopher Miller, (559) 310-5085 Tulare & Kern Counties Christopher Miller, (559) 310-5085

Membership Office Jennifer Claussen – Membership Coordinator (209) 545-6225 Daniel Dekeyrel – Membership Assistant ( Delivery Tags ) (209) 545-6261 Grower Accounting Joe Lavagnino – Grower Accounting Manager (916) 446-8491 Kristie Ezell – Grower Accounting Coordinator (916) 446-8368 Erika Martin – Grower Accounting Assistant (916) 446-8385

ALMOND FACTS

2022 Grower Liaisons

LEGEND

DISTRICT 1

DISTRICT 2

P. Samantha Lewis Chris Alves Luke Konyn Robert Thill Brian Erickson Stacy Gore Jerry Montz Steve Carlos Fred Montgomery Daniel Varner Greg Overton Darcy Jones Dan Cummings W. Howard Isom

Cathy Marsh Sid La Grande

Chairman Vice-Chairman Ex-Officio Director Appointed (Member-at-Large)

Joe Martinez Sarah Pippitt Maryann Warmerdam Don Bransford

Almond Board Alternate Almond Board Director Almond Board Chair

Ryan Finnen Brian Cahill Jake Driver Ron Tadlock Jake Spooner Amy Abele John Monroe

Elaine Rominger Gerald Rominger

DISTRICT 3

DISTRICT 4

Nick Alta Chris Rishwain Jack Dalton Don Van Vliet Rick Phillips Louie Tallerico

John Almeida Phil Mohler Jake Sonke Bryan Van Groningen Kevin Van Laar

Rick Morris Paul Adrian Wayne Bruns Tim Roos Mike Ballatore Dawn Price Ian Koetsier George te Velde

Mike Bogetti Allen Sipma Bert Van Ryn Rudy Mussi Zack Reinstein Dale Van Groningen John Thoming

For Grower Liaison contact information, please contact your regional manager.

Kevin Fondse Kenneth Roos

DISTRICT 5

DISTRICT 6

DISTRICT 8

DISTRICT 9

DISTRICT 7

Eric Heinrich Naomi A. Layland Alex Vanderstoel Ryan Valk John De Visser Manuel Furtado Lucas Van Duyn Grant Ardis Brandon Riddle Mark Giannini Dennis Bowers Stephen Van Duyn Neil Van Duyn

Christine Gemperle Don Clark

David Tolmosoff Robert Allen Jens Finderup RJ Maan Ryan Indart Lee Erickson Norman Pretzer

Mark Fanucchi Doug Kindig Ray Van Beek Mark Palla Gurcharan Dhillon Kyle Balakian Keith Gilbert Karamjit Jhandi Mark Tos Benjamin Wilson Paramjit Dosanjh

Frank Fagundes Jeffrey Baize Tim Lohman Rick Scoto Galen Miyamoto

Jared Serpa Hal Carlton Frank Borba Trent Voss Michael Mora Paul Danbom Eric Genzoli Rod Vilas

Joe Sansoni Jimmi Atwal

Steve Bains Mike Yager Neil Amaral Mason McKinney Blake Little Matt Efird George Goshgarian Aldo Sansoni

Louis Bandoni David P. Souza James Ohki Jason Chandler Dan Smith Dan Mendenhall Robert J. Weimer

Rick Alvernaz Gary Marchy Nick Blom Charles Crivelli III Steve Vilas Bill Brush

Lisa Marroquin Kent Stenderup Clinton Shick

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Four Special Podcasts for Almond Growers! Almond growers now have four convenient ways to stay up to date on key issues regarding ag and almonds. The resources are provided by Blue Diamond Growers , Almond Board of California, Almond Alliance, and Ag Council.

The Blue Diamond Almond Podcast: Grown in California Stay up to date on current trends and the future of almonds and almond ingredients. CJ McClellan, Senior Manager of Strategic Marketing, and Loretta Kelly, Director of Strategic Marketing, interview industry experts and Blue Diamond thought leaders to bring you applied almond expertise and valuable insights you won't find anywhere else. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts. The Almond Board of California: Almond Essentials This three-part series explores the latest research from ABC, sustainable farming practices and almond recipe inspiration. All episodes available here: almonds.com/why-almonds/almond- living-magazine/almond-essentials-podcast-series Almond Alliance: Almond Alert Almond Alert is the Almond Alliance's new bi-monthly podcast bringing new thoughts, thinkers, ideas, and information to the almond community worldwide. Almond Alert aims to bring big and different ideas and influencers to members, the market, and more so we can continue to lead, innovate, and act. Almond Alert is now available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts, or you can view it on YouTube. Ag Council: Almond Journey This podcast explores how almond growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the industry forward. Episode 27 (August 2) on brown spot featured Blue Diamond ’s VP of Member Relations, Mel Machado. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

ALMOND FACTS

Blue Diamond Leadership Program Class of 2023 Applications Due October 14! The Blue Diamond Leadership Program (previously known as Young Leaders) is encouraging all interested applicants to apply . The Leadership Program is designed to prepare the participants for a leadership role in the almond industry by:

• Developing communication and leadership skills

• Familiarizing the participants with the structure and operations of Blue Diamond Growers

• Developing an awareness of the advantages of Blue Diamond membership

• Meeting and becoming acquainted with other almond growers

• Encouraging participation in Blue Diamond activities

• Assisting participants in the development and operation of a successful farming business

• Familiarizing participants with the external factors that affect their business

The Leadership Program consists of three in-person gatherings in 2023: January 12–13 (Sacramento), June 22–23 (Salida), and November 14 (Modesto). Completion of the program requires attendance at all three sessions. Please scan the QR code below or utilize the online application link to apply! Reach out to your Field Supervisor if you have any questions about the Leadership Program. Participant selections for the 2023 Leadership Program will be made by a committee consisting of the local Board member, Advisory/Liaison Committee members, and the Field Supervisor representing your district.

If you are interested, please submit your application by October 14, 2022!

To apply, please complete the application via this link: forms.monday.com/forms/32d3ecf3b7eadc575b65579eb13a8df2 ? r=use1

Or scan the QR code with your smartphone:

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Annual General Election It is time once again for the Blue Diamond annual general elections. This is a great opportunity for you to exercise one of your fundamental rights as a voting member to shape the future of your Blue Diamond Growers cooperative: electing members of the Board of Directors and Grower Liaison Committees. This year, you have the opportunity to vote for District Directors in districts 2, 8 and 9. You also have the opportunity to vote for Grower Liaisons in each of the nine districts.

Ballots will be mailed the week of October 10 to voting members with voting will close on November 4, 2022 . Only ballots received by this date will be counted. Your vote matters! Be sure to submit your ballot in plenty of time so your vote is received before this deadline. How to Vote. There are three ways to vote: paper ballot, online or by phone. Your election packet will include the paper ballot, return envelope, and instructions for online and phone voting.

PAPER BALLOT 1

ONLINE 2

BY PHONE 3

Don’t forget to return the Proxy Card! In addition to the ballot, you will receive a Proxy Card. This card gives you the opportunity to assign your vote to another voting member of the cooperative. Just as importantly, it also ensures you are counted at the annual meeting, even if you are unable to attend. Why does this matter ? In order to hold the annual meeting, there must be a required minimum number of members present in person, virtually or by proxy (this is called having a quorum). If you are unable to attend the meeting yourself, you can designate a proxy who will represent you at the meeting.

ALMOND FACTS

Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication.

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

#WeAreBlueDiamond Social Media Activity

This past month, Blue Diamond remembered all the fallen citizens who were lost in the 9/11 tragedy. We hosted a booth and handed out lots of almond samples at Legends of Wine, and the Farm to Fork Festival. We celebrated a massive win; our cooperative being selected to receive $45MM grant from USDA. We enjoyed the harvest shake while saying “farewell” to our wonderful, summer interns who spent the past few months with us on several meaningful projects.

ALMOND FACTS

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Post-Harvest means it’s time to add soil amendments. Patented Smart-Till Tines fracture and open the soil 8” deep with little soil disturbance. Excel at incorporating amendments such as fertilizer or gypsum directly to the soil for Max results. • Incorporate soil ammendments • Reduces soil compaction • Fast at 6-8 mph reducing cost/acre

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BLUE DIAMOND INVESTMENT PROGRAMS Current Investment Rates available as of October 1, 2022

Blue Diamond Growers offers members short-term and long- term investment programs. The objective of these programs is to serve as a competitive investment alternative for our members and provide Blue Diamond Growers with a steady source of funds. The interest rates effective October 1, 2022, for the program are listed here:

Short-Term Investment Certificate (STIC)

Long-Term Investment Certificate (LTIC) (Maturity Date of 6/30/2025)

Initial Investment Required

$1,000

$50,000

Interest Rate

4.00%

2.95%

(Variable, subject to change)

(Fixed rate)

For more information, contact your local Regional Manager, or Member Services at (209) 545-6225.

This summary does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to purchase investment certificates. We will provide a package of documents for the programs to those members who are California residents and who express an interest in participating in the program.

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Baked Apple Donuts Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Difficulty: Easy Servings: 6

Ingredients Donuts • 1 cup apple sauce

5. Butter donut pans and fill to rim with batter. Bake for 15 minutes. 6. Allow to fully cool before dipping into caramel sauce. 7. In a microwave-safe bowl wider than the width of the donuts, add all ingredients for caramel glaze. Microwave for 2 minutes, stopping and stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. 8. D ip donuts into caramel and top with favorite toppings.

• ⅓ cup butter • 1 egg white • ½ cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 tablespoon vanilla • ¼ teaspoon salt • 1½ cups Blue Diamond Almond Flour • ½ cup Blue Diamond gluten-free flour blend ( see recipe to the right ) • 1 teaspoon baking soda Caramel Glaze • ¼ cup almond butter • ¼ cup honey • 1 teaspoon vanilla • ⅛ cup butter Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. P lace apple sauce, butter, egg white, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and salt into a mixer and blend until well combined. 3. M ix together almond flour and gluten-free flour blend. Slowly add to wet ingredients inside of the mixer. Mix for 2 minutes. 4. Turn off mixer and hand mix in baking soda.

Gluten-Free Flour Blend: • 2 cups brown rice flour • 2 cups white rice flour • 2 cups tapioca flour • 1 cup corn starch • ¼ tablespoon xantham gum

Simply sift all ingredients together thoroughly and store any amount you do not use in an airtight container. The gluten-free flour blend keeps in the fridge for up to three months or in the freezer for up to six months. Just remember to bring the measurement of flour you want to use up to room temperature before baking for optimum texture and consistency.

ALMOND FACTS

Pumpkin Cinnamon Buns with Cream Cheese Frosting Prep Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Cooking Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Difficulty: Hard Servings: 12

Ingredients Rolls • ¼ cup unsalted butter • 2¼ teaspoons dry active yeast (1 packet) • ¾ cup Almond Breeze Unsweetened Original Almondmilk warmed to 110°F • ½ teaspoon granulated sugar • 3 cups bread flour • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar

Directions 1. Place butter in small sauce pan over medium-high heat. Butter will begin to melt, foam, and crackle. Whisk continuously until butter begins to brown and smell similar to caramel. Immediately remove from heat and transfer to a bowl to cool for a few minutes while you make the dough. 2. In bowl, add warm unsweetened almond milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes to activate the yeast. While the yeast is activating, whisk together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt together in a large bowl. 3. O nce the milk is a bit foamy from the yeast add in ½ of the flour mixture, along with the pumpkin puree, egg, and cooled brown butter; stir with a wooden spoon until just combined. Then add in the rest of the flour and stir again until just combined. Place dough hook on your electric mixer and run on medium-low speed for about 8 minutes. Alternatively, you can knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes. 4. Grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray. Add dough and turn over, making sure to coat it all with the oil. Cover with plastic wrap and a towel, then place in a warm place to rise for about 1½ hours or until doubled in size. 5. In a small bowl, combine the filling ingredients: ¼ cup softened butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. Once dough has doubled in size, place onto a large surface dusted with flour. Punch dough down and roll into a 15x9 inch rectangle. Spread butter and cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough leaving a ½ inch border. Beginning at the 15-inch side, roll up tightly and pinch edges together to seal. Using a serrated knife, gently cut into 12 slices. 6. Generously grease the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan or 8x11 with butter or cooking spray. Place cinnamon roll slices in pan, cover with plastic wrap and let rise again for 30–45 minutes or until dough doubles in size. At this point you can decide if you want to bake them now or later. If later, stick them in the refrigerator overnight (covered well). When you are ready to bake the rolls, simply take them out 30 minutes prior to baking and bring to room temperature. 7. To bake, preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until barely golden brown. Cool for 5–10 minutes. While cooling, make the frosting by combining cream cheese, powdered sugar, Almond Breeze Unsweetened Original, vanilla, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Spread evenly over warm rolls. Enjoy!

• 1½ teaspoons cinnamon • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

• Pinch of nutmeg • Pinch of cloves • ½ teaspoon salt • 1 egg

• ½ cup pumpkin puree • ¼ cup butter softened • ⅔ cup packed dark brown sugar • 2 tablespoons cinnamon • Extra flour for dusting Frosting • 4 oz light plain cream cheese • ½ cup powdered sugar • ½ teaspoon vanilla • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon • 2 teaspoons Almond Breeze Unsweetened Original

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

CORNERING THE MARKET

This Holiday Season, Blue Diamond is Both Naughty and Nice Nobody is all naughty or all nice; we’re all a bit of both! Maybe you’ll see both sides come out when you indulge in Blue Diamond ’s new Snickerdoodle and Peppermint Cocoa flavored almonds. Available this October, make sure you don’t wait to grab these tasty, holiday flavors. Get them before they’re gone! The big question is, once both flavors are in your cart, will you keep one for yourself and scribble a friend’s name on the lid of the other, or will both stay tucked in that secret corner of your pantry no one else knows

about ? Whatever you decide, we know that Santa understands and will keep your name in good standing on his list. You may even find a can of Snickerdoodle or Peppermint Cocoa Almonds in your stocking.

Blue Diamond Snickerdoodle Almonds deliver a burst of sweet cinnamon and a taste of the delightful seasonal flavor you love on a superfood snack. *Snickerdoodle flavored treats grew 30% from 2020 to 2021! **84% awareness and 67% trial of Snickerdoodle flavors among young adults

Blue Diamond Peppermint Cocoa Almonds are inspired by winter’s favorite beverage and sure to indulge your sweet tooth with a delicious chocolatey flavor and a hint of peppermint. *Peppermint is a top established flavor related to hot cocoa and is experiencing growth. Chocolate & Peppermint flavors grew 37% from 2020 to 2021! What makes these flavors even sweeter is that, during a season famous for holiday parties filled with baked treats and sugary drinks, you can “indulge” in Blue Diamond’ s Naughty & Nice almonds and still walk away knowing that a superfood is hidden beneath the decadent, sweet wrapping. The flavors were crafted to perfection by the fantastic Blue Diamond research and development team. The sales and marketing teams had nearly one million cans pre-ordered by stores in the most collaborative campaign ever launched. Our supply chain team managed pre-orders to be shipped and marketed with precision while the operations and finance teams worked to produce and support the campaign. This massive team effort landed everyone a place on Santa’s nice list.

ALMOND FACTS

Availability: Available at retailers nationwide from October through December 2022

Where can you find Naughty & Nice Flavors? You’ll find our limited time flavors in our Nut & Gift Shops, your local grocery story, and on Amazon this October. Don’t forget about the can’t-miss in-store promotion: two 6-ounce cans for $5. You won’t be able to resist the beautiful, festive display, and the even more enticing flavors that awaken the joys of the winter season! *Ingredients and Flavor for Hot Cocoa; Source: Mintel 1/23/2022 **National Restaurant News; Source: Dataessential 9/13/2022

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

CORNERING THE MARKET

Blue Diamond ’s Sacramento Campus Welcomes Amazon Vendor Flex

An innovative new program rolled out at the Sacramento campus in the middle of September. Because Amazon is one of the fastest growing priority customers for Blue Diamond , we are partnering with the online retail giant on a unique Supply Chain initiative called the Amazon Vendor Flex Program. Through this program, Amazon embeds itself into our warehouse to create efficiencies and a more flexible supply chain. In September, Amazon and Blue Diamond supply chain teams collaborated to, essentially, stand up a mini Amazon store room within Blue Diamond ’s warehouse at 16th and C Streets on the Sacramento campus. The dedicated warehouse space, staffed by Amazon employees, will allow Amazon to conveniently package and ship Blue Diamond products directly to Amazon customers from the facility. As a result, both Amazon and Blue Diamond will realize significant efficiencies in our outsourced third-party

logistics network, along with cost savings from reduced transportation costs and better inventory control. We continue to look for ways to improve our competitive advantage and these savings will ultimately be passed on to our growers through greater returns. What’s more, the reduced greenhouse gas emissions achieved by eliminating transit trips supports Blue Diamond ’s commitment to sustainability.

ALMOND FACTS

Weiss McNair is proud to announce the 2850 Sweeper

NUT HARVESTING EQUIPMENT

2850 SWEEPER

The 2850 is a “new” Low Profile Self-Propelled Sweeper. Powered by a John Deere 4045-T, Tier 4F, 74 HP engine, with NO DEF FLUID required. The ground drive features two-speed piston motors with double-reduction gear boxes powered by a high efficiency hydraulic system. With a cab height of only 54 inches, the 2850 is a powerful unit that is 12 inches lower than the standard height air cab sweeper, includes an ergonomic seat, and fully illuminated dash panel switches. The 2850 is the perfect height for high density orchards with very low canopies. The 2850 standard equipment includes rear view camera, large windows for improved visibility, and full heating & air conditioning in a dust-free, pressurized cab. Finally, the cabin has a full gauge display with tachometer, engine temperature, and oil pressure, along with an easy-to-read electronic fuel level display.

For more information or to find a dealer near you, call us at (530) 891-6214 or visit our website at weissmcnair.com

100 Loren Avenue, Chico, CA 95928 (530) 891-6214 | Fax (530) 891-5905 | www.weissmcnair.com

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

WM-AlmondFacts1/2v-2850.indd 1

12/16/20 11:22 AM

GROWING THE GOODNESS

Connecting the Orchard to the Aisle

This summer, Blue Diamond hosted Marcos Helou and his family. Helou is the owner of Bela Vista, Blue Diamond ’s licensee partner in Brazil. Blue Diamond grower, Galen Miyamoto, is featured on the packaging in Brazil, so what better way to strengthen Helou’s connection than to visit the Miyamoto home ? The two families talked and tasted all things almond, walked the Miyamoto orchards, and snapped a photo to commemorate this very special gathering of two leaders representing Almond Breeze from orchard to aisle. The guests also met with Mark Jansen, president and CEO, and Mel Machado, vice president of member relations. They visited the Sacramento and Turlock plants as well as the Almond Innovation Center. The Helou family was accompanied by Blue Diamond ’s managing director of Latin America and Caribbean, Edgar Ebel and Brazil country manager, Ricardo Ebel throughout their visit.

Location: Miyamoto home. Photo credit: Ricardo Ebel Galen Miyamoto and Marcos Helou in the Miyamoto home

Location: Turlock Plant. Photo credit: Ashley Logsdon Ricardo Ebel, Christiane Helou, Leonardo Helou, Marcos Helou, Edgar Fernandes, Ashley Logsdon, Christine Lott

People in photos (left to right)

Location: Lunch meeting. Photo credit: Ashley Logsdon Ricardo Ebel, Ashley Logsdon, Mel Machado, Edgar Fernandes, Mark Jansen, Marcos Helou, Christiane Helou, Leonardo Helou, Christine Lott

Location: Sacramento Plant. Photo credit: Ashley Logsdon Doug Crabtree, Christiane Helou, Marcos Helou, Ricardo Ebel, Marcos Helou, Edgar Fernandes

ALMOND FACTS

Almonds Best Clonal Rootstocks

• Brights Hybrid BH ® 5 (cv. Arthur V) US PP18,782 P3 • Krymsk ® 86 (cv. AP 1) US PP16,272 P3

• Hansen

• Viking

• Most major varieties available for delivery in 2022, including Yorizane The Gold Nut TM Y116-161-99 - Self-fertile - Released by the U.S.D.A.

Ed Needham San Joaquin Valley Southern CA 559-977-7282

Steve Neill Chico

John Arellano Sierra Foothills Lodi & Clarksburg 559-804-6949 Steve Scheuber Central Coast San Joaquin Valley 209-531-5065 Aaron Salsedo San Joaquin Valley Southern CA 559-892-6028

Sacramento Valley 530-570-6830

Tia Russell North Coast

Tim Coito Chico

Southern Oregon 209-815-2399

Sacramento Valley 530-521-8733

1-800-GRAFTED duartenursery.com | Hughson, CA

John Duarte At Large 209-531-6874

Blue Diamond Growers does not endorse or verify statements made by advertisers within this publication.

ADVOCACY REPORT

End of Session, New Beginnings, and a Lot of Interpretation

In the last week alone, there were over 1,000 bills dispensed in the California State Senate and Assembly. Yes, 1,000. Even high-ranking state officials expressed their frustration with the amount of legislative business left to the last minute. But this is, as it would seem, par for the course for the legislature. In combination with policy proposals, several budget details needed to be ironed out to conclude the legislative session. However, on August 12, Governor Newsom announced his end-of-session priority climate/energy package proposals. At this, many outstanding legislative and budget issues were halted. In the end, the Governor did not accomplish all his climate/energy proposals, but most were passed by the Legislature and sent to his desk for approval.

The end is always just the beginning. The legislation that was approved by both houses, now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature of veto. For much of the legislation that becomes law, it is up to the executive agencies for interpretation and implementation. This is where the idea becomes reality, and where the rubber meets the road for all of us on the ground who such laws, regulations, programs, and projects effect.

This is just as important as our legislative advocacy work.

Almonds’ position, credibility, legitimacy, and relevance are key to the work we do and how we help navigate the legislative process. The Governor now has until September 30 at midnight to sign or veto legislation. Here are summaries of various bills that were priorities for us — things defeated, things passed, things we’re working on with decision makers to determine whether they should be signed or vetoed.

ALMOND FACTS

GOVERNOR’S CLIMATE PACKAGE AB 2133 (Quirk) California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006: emissions limit. This bill requires the California State Air Resources Board to ensure that statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are reduced to at least 55% below the 1990 level by no later than December 31, 2030. Status: Held on the Senate Floor. AB 1279 (Muratsuchi) The California Climate Crisis Act. This bill declares it the state’s policy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as soon as possible, but no later than 2045, to achieve that goal with at least an 85% reduction in GHG emissions, and to achieve and maintain net negative GHG emissions. The bill also creates requirements for reporting from the California Air Resources Board and review by the Legislative Analyst's Office. This bill is contingent upon the enactment of SB 905 (Caballero). Status: Signed and Chaptered. SB 905 (Caballero) Carbon sequestration: Carbon Capture, Removal, Utilization, and Storage Program. This bill establishes a framework for the capture, utilization, and storage of compressed carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. Status: Signed and Chaptered. SB 1137 (Gonzalez) Oil and gas: operations: location restrictions: notice of intention: health protection zone: sensitive receptors. This bill prohibits the Geologic Energy Management Division from approving any notice of intention within a health protection zone, except for specific circumstances. This bill also requires all oil or gas production facilities or wells with a wellhead within a health protection zone to comply with health, safety, and environmental requirements and comply with community communication and water sampling requirements. Status: Signed and Chaptered. SB 846 (Dodd) Diablo Canyon powerplant: extension of operations. This bill authorizes the extension of the operation of the Diablo Canyon Nuclear power plant (DCPP) beyond the current expiration dates for up to five additional years (no later than 2029 and 2030). This bill also authorizes a loan of $1.4 billion from the state to Pacific Gas & Electric, the operator of DCPP, to facilitate the extension of the plant. Status: Signed and Chaptered.

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SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

ADVOCACY REPORT

ALMOND ALLIANCE 2022 PRIORITY BILLS AB 1757 (C. Garcia/R. Rivas) California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006: climate goal: natural and working lands. This bill requires the Natural Resources Agency, in collaboration with specified entities to determine on or before January 1, 2024, an ambitious range of targets for natural carbon sequestration, and nature-based climate solutions, that reduce greenhouse gas emissions for 2030, 2038, and 2045, to support state goals to achieve carbon neutrality and foster climate adaptation and resilience. Status: Signed and Chaptered. AB 2101 (Flora) California Carbon Sequestration and Climate Resiliency Project Registry: whole orchard recycling projects. This bill expands the list of projects that may be included on the registry to include whole orchard recycling projects. The bill defined “whole orchard recycling” to mean the onsite grinding or chipping of whole trees during orchard removal, and incorporation of the ground or chipped biomass into the topsoil prior to replanting. Status: Signed by Governor 7.19.22 AB 2146 (Bauer-Kahan) Neonicotinoid pesticides: prohibited nonagricultural. This bill beginning January 1, 2024, prohibits a person from selling, possessing, or using a neonicotinoid pesticide, except for use on an agricultural commodity. Status: Vetoed. AB 2183 (Stone) Agricultural labor relations. This bill would enable farm workers to choose, for the purpose of union elections, between the current practice of voting in-person at a physical location or utilizing a new option to vote by mailing or dropping off a ballot card to the relevant Agricultural Labor Relations Board office. Status: Signed and Chaptered. AB 2201 (Bennett) Groundwater sustainability agency: groundwater extraction permit. This bill requires a groundwater sustainability agency (GSA) in a critically over drafted basin to establish and implement a process to issue permits for groundwater extraction facilities within the GSA’s jurisdiction by July 1, 2023,

unless the facility is exempted due to groundwater being used for domestic, environmental, existing, or renewable energy purposes. Status: Died on the Assembly Floor. AB 2406 (Aguiarr-Curry) Intermodal marine terminals. This bill would also prohibit an intermodal marine container provider from imposing those charges, extended dwell charges, or commencing or continuing free time, as defined, on a motor carrier, as defined, beneficial cargo owner, or other intermediary relative to transactions involving cargo shipped by intermodal transport under certain circumstances. This bill would also prohibit an intermodal marine container provider from commencing or continuing free time if cargo is unavailable for retrieval and timely notice of cargo availability has not been provided. Status: Signed and Chaptered. AB 2550 (Arambula) State Air Resources Board: San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District: nonattainment. This bill would require the California Air Resources Board to undertake certain activities if the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District does not attain the National Ambient Air Quality Standards established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Status: Vetoed. AB 2836 (E. Garcia) Carl Moyer Memorial Air Quality Standards Attainment Program: vehicle registration fees: California tire fee. This bill extends from January 1, 2024, to January 1, 2033, the repeal date applicable to various provisions of law that authorize local air districts to collect a variety of fees to fund the Carl Moyer Memorial Air Quality Standards Attainment Program and the Waste Tire Management Program. Status: Signed and Chaptered. SB 260 (Wiener) Climate Corporate Accountability Act. This bill requires any U.S.-based business with annual revenues in excess of $1 billion and that does business in California to annually report the full range of greenhouse gas emissions attributable to the business, including direct emissions, electricity use, and indirect emissions from the business’s supply chain and other sources. The bill also

ALMOND FACTS

SB 1084 (Hurtado) Agricultural land: foreign ownership and interests: foreign governments. This bill would prohibit a foreign government from purchasing, acquiring, leasing, or holding an interest, as defined, in agricultural land within the State of California. Status: Vetoed. Budget Updates The Governor and legislative leadership put together the final Budget Bill Jr. (AB 179) and the long-awaited Resources Budget Trailer Bill (AB 211) agreements. Both bills were passed in the final hours of the legislative session. Below are the details of the completed budget bills that are of importance to the agriculture community:

specifies procedures for implementation and enforcement by the Air Resources Board and the Secretary of State. Status: Died on the Assembly Floor. SB 490 (Caballero) The Buy American Food Act: public institutions: purchase of nondomestic agricultural food products. This bill requires a public institution that receives federal meal reimbursement funding to provide prepared meals to include in their solicitation for bids and contracts that only the purchase of agricultural food products grown, packed, or processed domestically is authorized, unless, among other things, the bid or price of the nondomestic agricultural product is more than 25% lower than the bid or price of the domestic agricultural product. Status: Signed and Chaptered.

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SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

ADVOCACY REPORT

General Ag

• $20 million to CDFA for the Alternative Manure Management Program. • $20 million to the California Energy Commission for CalSHAPE. • $15 million to the Department of Community Services and Development for farmworker housing in the Low-Income Weatherization Program (LWIP).

• ●Specifies that $75 million provided in the budget to the Office of Business and Economic Development is for Small Business Drought Relief Grants, with any unspent funds being allowed to be repurposed for semiconductor research, development, or manufacturing. • ●$0.6 million to the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) for the Animal Mortality Management Program.

Drought & Water Highlights ($788 Million)

• $190 million for water recycling with $80 million for the Metropolitan Water District and $10 million for the City of Ontario at the State Water Resources Control Board. • $50 million for Metropolitan Water District resilience projects. • $56 million for the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, including technical assistance for small farms.

• $0.3 million to CDFA for the Origin Inspection Program.

• $1.08 million to CDFA and $1.08 million to the Department of Pesticide Regulation for integrated pest management technical assistance. Green House Gas Reduction Fund (Cap-and-Trade) ($280 Million Total) • $50 million to the ARB for Clean Cars 4 All and other Equity Projects.

●• $224.5 million for watershed restoration.

• $10 million to the ARB for AB 617 implementation.

• $16.75 million ongoing for Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations. ●• $25 million General Fund to the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) for the Save Our Water Campaign. • $4 million General Fund to the Department of Water Resources (DWR) for studying salmon reintroduction. ●• $6.8 million in General Fund to various departments for expediting large-scale habitat projects. • $67 million to Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) for the Land Acquisition and Habitat Enhancement Program for the purposes of watershed climate resilience in Southern California.

• $75 million to State Coastal Conservancy and Ocean Protection Council to address sea level rise.

• $5 million to ARB for methane satellites.

• $30 million to ARB for community air monitoring.

• $20 million to ARB for lower emission boats.

• $10 million to ARB to address HFC refrigerants.

• $5 million to ARB for wood stoves.

• $10 million to CalRecycle for methane reduction for wastewater treatment. • $10 million to the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) for methane reduction using cattle feed.

ALMOND FACTS

• “Water Drought Response Interim or Immediate Relief” Adds to the definition of “interim or

For the most part, this legislative season has gone as we anticipated. A number of bills we opposed, like Bennet’s Groundwater Well AB 2201, we positioned with partners to stop from proceeding. All the while we prepared to work the veto strategy or influence the implementation by positioning with the administration agencies. We knew as early as April the majority of our traced bills that would make it through the legislature, and thus positioned for September. Almonds are unique and powerful. If we want to be treated differently, we must act differently. Taking position to be of influence, regardless of the issue, is our aim. To break the reactionary “whack-a-mole” game Sacramento plays requires working with both sides of the aisle, creating new and non-traditional partnerships and breaking with the herd. Most importantly it requires the discipline to know when to lead and when to follow. As we turn our eye to the 2023 season, Almond Alliance is focusing our energy on the issues that matter most to you — functioning supply chain and a reliable water supply. By concentrating our efforts on the state side, and expanding our federal operations, the Almond Alliance leads in solutions for our growers, our industry, and our community.

immediate relief” certain activities to increase water conservation and drought resilience planning and includes post-performance monitoring as an eligible cost for interim or immediate relief.

Energy Highlights ($859 Million Total)

• $100 million to support the Hydrogen Program at the California Energy Commission (CEC), and $5 million to the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development to support hydrogen hubs. • $100 million to support the Industrial Grid Support and Decarbonization Program at the CEC.

• $25 million to support the Food Production Investment Program at the CEC.

• $162 million to support the Equitable Building Decarbonization program, of which $50 million is to support the TECH initiative. • $20 million to support the adoption of ultra-low- global-warming potential refrigerants.

• $45 million to support Offshore Wind Infrastructure.

• $100 million to support Oroville Pump Storage.

• $200 million for energy transmission projects, with the first round supporting the Salton Sea region.

• $50 million to support carbon removal projects.

Aubrey Bettencourt,

• $235 million to support zero-emission vehicles and infrastructure.

President/CEO, Almond Alliance

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2022

CULTIVATING SUSTAINABILITY

Blue Diamond Awarded $45 Million from USDA to Expand Climate Smart Orchard Programs

Funds are part of historic federal investment to combat climate crisis and protect U.S. lands and natural resources

recycling. As a dynamic global consumer packaged goods company, Blue Diamond ’s unique market position enables it to connect climate-smart almond farms to consumer markets through branded almond products as well as an international ingredient business with major multinational brands all committed to climate impact reductions. Dr. Dan Sonke, director of Sustainability for Blue Diamond Growers , facilitated the co-op’s application for the USDA funds in the spring of this year. “We are honored by this award, which will fund on-the-ground climate-smart practices to not only sequester carbon to combat climate change, but also enhance the biodiversity of orchards and the soil. These regenerative practices enhance the resiliency of our farmers in a changing climate and with global market challenges.” Sonke says next steps for Blue Diamond are to work with growers, USDA officials, and applicant partners to finalize the scope and timing of proposed activities along with the related funding. More information on Blue Diamond ’s existing commitment to sustainable practices can be found on the Sustainability website at bluediamond.com/Sustainability and will be shared in the 2022 Sustainability Report anticipated for release in mid-November. Further information on the grant will be highlighted in the Sustainability session at our annual meeting on November 16 and in the November/ December issue of Almond Facts.

This September, Blue Diamond was awarded $45 million in funds provided by the USDA as part of a massive climate protection partnership activation. Blue Diamond was one of 70 partners named out of 450 proposals submitted to the USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities: usda.gov/climate-solutions/ climate-smart-commodities, for a first round of funding. Almonds are the top perennial specialty crop in the U.S. as measured by value, and Blue Diamond Growers is the largest supplier of almonds from California. Mark Jansen, president and CEO of Blue Diamond Growers , praised the announcement. “This is a historic opportunity for our 112-year old cooperative representing nearly half of the almond growers in California,” said Jansen. “These funds will help significantly accelerate and expand the stewardship impact that our multi-generational family farms are already making in orchards throughout the state. On behalf of our nearly 3,000 grower-owners, I applaud the USDA for a vision to commit meaningful investment in furthering climate smart American agricultural production.” According to Jansen, the funding will be used in the co-op’s orchards, to help Blue Diamond growers expand existing implementation of cover crops, conservation plantings, hedgerows, and practice whole orchard

ALMOND FACTS

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