January-February 2024

This issue of Almond Facts covers the new strategy for the cooperative, takes a look at the new Almond Breeze products launching in the United States and Thailand, discusses various ways to enable pollinator health during bloom, and introduces Blue Diamond's new federal advocates, Lynn Jacquez and Stacy McBride.

NEWS, VIEWS, AND INDUSTRY INSIGHT

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2024

NEW PRODUCTS at Home & Abroad!

Now Available in the USA

New Year’s Strategy for the Co-Op

Bloom Season Approaches and so do the honey bees!

NEW LAUNCHES! Almond & Oat (U.S.) and Drinking Yogurt (Thailand)

All Top Self-Fertile Varieties Now Available

INDEPENDENCE ® (ALM-21 CV.)

YORIZANE (Y116-161-99) SHASTA ®

ASK ABOUT OTHER NEW SELF-FERTILE OPTIONS!

PAUL SMITH

BOB FURMIDGE

RANDY FASANI

JOSH BERGMAN

MATTHEW HADDON

Contact your local field representative! Sierragoldtrees.com/reps • (530) 674-1145

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

ALMOND FACTS

JAN–FEB 2024

Contents

8 FIELD TEAM 10 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL 16 CORNERING THE MARKET 18 GROWING THE GOODNESS 22 ADVOCACY REPORT 26 IN YOUR ORCHARD 38 CLASSIFIED ADS

Spring is coming and we’re blooming with excitement!

Features 6 President’s Corner

22 Lynn Jacquez & Stacy McBride Advocacy Report New to the Advocacy Report section, but not to the cooperative, Lynn Jacquez and Stacy McBride join Blue Diamond as federal advocates who will provide a myriad of updates from Washington D.C. and beyond that impact the co-op. 26 Pollinator Care in the Orchard During Bloom Season Project Apis m . provides many ways to care for pollinators during the critical shift in seasons as we go from winter to spring. Find out how to make the most of the honey bees’ visit to your orchards this spring.

President and CEO, Kai Bockmann discusses the new strategy and plans for growth coming up for the co-op and introduces some new Blue Diamond products! 16 NEW! Almond Breeze ® Almond & Oat Available in Stores Now and Drinking Yogurt Launches in Thailand Blue Diamond launches Almond & Oat in the U.S. and introduces drinking yogurt to Thailand. The co-op looks forward to consumers enjoying these new products for their fantastic taste and nutritional goodness!

ON THE COVER: Blue Diamond is excited to introduce Almond Breeze ® Almond & Oat to the United States while Almond Breeze ® Drinking Yogurt launches in Thailand!

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

Matthew Efird | Fresno Joe Huston | Monterey Kristin Daley | San Francisco

OFFICERS Kai Bockmann, 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 Jake Sonke, Assistant 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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ALMOND FACTS

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PRESIDENT’S CORNER

As I think about what a crucial year 2023 was for Blue Diamond, it has become clear that our go-forward strategy and roadmap for growth is exactly what will elevate us into the next chapter. I feel optimistic and energized about 2024 and the journey of growth we are embarking on together.

Since joining Blue Diamond in January of last year, I have had the privilege of visiting orchards, attending district meetings, and engaging with our dedicated growers and their families. The heart and soul of our grower-owners drives our success. As you may have heard at the Annual Grower Meeting, the new strategic plan is already showing exciting progress and notable wins. I am confident that we have the right people in place to drive a bigger, better, and stronger Blue Diamond in the years to come. We have been hard at work establishing direct relationships and positioning Blue Diamond as a key player in the food service space. Recognizing the potential in Canada, we are striving to make headway by introducing popular U.S. flavors and potentially creating custom regional Canadian flavors. With a focus on reducing operational costs, we continue to find efficiencies and provide cost benefits to our growers. Many of you were excited to hear about The Growers Connect Marketplace at the Annual Grower Meeting. More than 150 of you have already signed up! The platform is currently in development, and we will share more updates as we get closer to the launch.

Our exciting new products are now hitting more shelves too! Almond Breeze ® : Almond & Oat is now officially in U.S. stores, and we are closely tracking consumer response. Packed with essential nutrients, this latest addition combines all the flavor of almondmilk and the creaminess of oatmilk. Thin Dipped Almonds have launched nationally and can now be found at various retailers across the U.S. We are reaching a wider audience and ensuring this sweet and healthy snack is readily available for our customers. Ranch Flavored Almonds will be available in Walmart starting this May. Paired with our almonds, the familiar and zesty taste that many of us love is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The plan is not linear, but the destination is set. It has been a tough year and there will continue to be challenges. However, we have many exciting opportunities to look forward to in 2024 and beyond as we grow our business and expand into new areas. This is the time for us to grow in the right way, and I hope you are as enthusiastic as I am about this journey. I wish you and your families a happy and prosperous 2024!

Kai Bockmann President & CEO

ALMOND FACTS

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

FIELD TEAM

Regional Managers

Vice President, Member Relations Mel Machado

Tehama, Butte, Glenn, Sutter, & Yuba Christine Ivory, (530) 518-9109 Colusa, Yolo & Solano Nicole Jansen, (530) 338-6440 Sacramento County, San Joaquin County, North of Hwy 205 & East of San Joaquin River KC Clendenin, (209) 596-5375 San Joaquin County, West of San Joaquin River & South of Hwy 205 Stanislaus County, North of Tuolumne River & Hwy 132 Justin Elam, (209) 303-7306 Stanislaus County, East of Hwy 99, South of Tuolumne River Austin Jackson, (209) 417-2010 Stanislaus County, West of Hwy 99, South of Tuolumne River, South of Grayson & Howard Road’s West of San Joaquin River Merced County, North of Merced River & Hills Ferry & Stuhr Roads Trent Voss, (209) 470-5981 Merced County, South of Merced River & Hills Ferry Merced County, South of Hwy 140 Madera County, North of Avenue 12, Firebaugh Blvd, Avenue 7½, & W. Nees Avenue Carla Youngblood, (559) 240-0906 Madera County, South of Avenue 12, Firebaugh Blvd, Avenue 7½ & W. Nees Avenue, Fresno County, North of Hwy 201/Avenue 400, North of Conejo Avenue & Kamm Fresno County, South of Hwy 201/Avenue 400, South of Conejo Avenue & Kamm Avenue, East of Derrick Avenue, Tulare County, Kings County, & Kern County Anthony Scudder, (559) 470-9731 Membership Office Jennifer Claussen Supervisor – Member Relations Administration (209) 545-6225 & Stuhr Roads, North of Hwy 140 Kenny Miyamoto, (209) 323-8454 Avenue, West of Derrick Avenue Ashley Correia, (559) 356-1584

(209) 545-6222 – Salida (209) 531-6352 – Cellular Director, Member Relations Ben Goudie (209) 225-0413

Daniel Dekeyrel Member Relations Coordinator (Delivery Tags) (209) 545-6261

ALMOND FACTS

2024 Grower Liaisons Committee Members

LEGEND

DISTRICT 1

DISTRICT 2 Maryann Warmerdam Don Bransford

Brian Erickson Stacy Gore Jerry Montz Steve Carlos Fred Montgomery

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

Ryan Finnen Brian Cahill Jake Driver Ron Tadlock Jake Spooner

Daniel Varner Greg Overton

Almond Board Alternate Almond Board Director Almond Board Chair

Amy Abele Kelli Evans

Darcy Jones Kevin Davies Timothy Perraie John Nock Meredith Christopher Dan Cummings

Carole M. Cain Catherine Cain Josh Pippit John Monroe Elaine Rominger Gerald Rominger

DISTRICT 3

DISTRICT 4

Don Van Vliet Rick Phillips Louie Tallerico

Kevin Van Laar Rick Morris Paul Adrian Wayne Bruns Tim Roos Mike Ballatore Dawn Price Ian Koetsier Lance Ioppini Wesley Eisenga Matt Visser Rick Van Vliet George te Velde

Mike Bogetti Allen Sipma Bert Van Ryn Rudy Mussi Zack Reinstein Bruce Oosterkamp Donald Drake Noah Andersen Dirk Van Laar 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

John De Visser Manuel Furtado Lucas Van Duyn Grant Ardis

Frank Borba Michael Mora Paul Danbom Eric Genzoli Rod Vilas

Ryan Indart Lee Erickson Norman Pretzer Steve Bains Mike Yager Neil Amaral Mason McKinney Blake Little Colin Unruh Daniel Babshoff Melvin Lubisich Nayiri Saghdejian Matt Efird George Goshgarian Aldo Sansoni

Gurcharan Dhillon Kyle Balakian Keith Gilbert Karamjit Jhandi Mark Tos Benjamin Wilson Paramjit Dosanjh Lisa Marroquin Shaminder S. Brar Gerard A. Loaiza Chris Couture Pete Romanini Kent Stenderup Clinton Shick

Galen Miyamoto Joe Sansoni Jimmi Atwal Louis Bandoni David P. Souza James Ohki Jason Chandler Dan Smith Dan Clendenin Rodney L. Voumard Michael Temnyk Rodney E. Ratzlaff Jr.

Brandon Riddle Mark Giannini Dennis Bowers Arthur Bowman Matt Fredriks Harry (Sonny) Johns Danielle Higby LeBeouf Tim Baker Stephen Van Duyn Neil Van Duyn

Rick Alvernaz Gary Marchy Dirk Van Konyenburg Justin Romero Derek Coelho Robert Mailloux Nick Blom Charles Crivelli III Steve Vilas Bill Brush

Dan Mendenhall Robert J. Weimer

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Thin Dipped Almonds Named in Food & Beverage Magazine’s 2023 “Products of the Year” Awards! Amongst Food & Beverage Magazine’s top product awards of 2023 were Blue Diamond ’s Thin Dipped Almonds! The tagline mentioned the product’s flavor offerings and key nutritional information. Their positive messaging included, “ These delicious, satisfying favors are also cholesterol-free, high in Vitamin E, and do not have a shiny wax or glossy finish, making for a guilt free, crunchy and sweet snack option .” The magazine boasts three million people in its readership base and 218 thousand newsletter recipients.

Blue Diamond Thin Dipped Almonds are a better-for-you snack nut option with 50% less sugar than the average chocolate- covered almonds. The new product comes in two flavors: Double Dark Chocolate and Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel, each containing 170 calories and 5 grams of protein per serving with no artificial colors or flavors. These delicious satisfying flavors are also cholesterol-free, high in Vitamin E, and do no have a shiny wax or glossy finish, making for a guilt-free, crunchy and sweet snack option.

ALMOND FACTS

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BLUE DIAMOND INVESTMENT PROGRAMS Current Investment Rates available as of August 1, 2023

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 to provide Blue Diamond Growers with a steady source of funds. The interest rates effective August 1, 2023, for the program are listed here:

Short-Term Investment Certificate (STIC)

Long-Term Investment Certificate (LTIC) (Maturity Date of 6/30/2026)

Initial Investment Required

$1,000

$50,000

Interest Rate

6.25%

4.25%

(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.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

#WeAreBlueDiamond Social Media Activity Happy New Year to all of you! Blue Diamond was excited to show off some delicious, gluten-free recipes to celebrate Gluten Free Baking Week. We applauded grower-owner, Mike Doherty for sharing his family’s farming legacy in an incredible video by CMTA. We dared fans of Blue Diamond almonds to celebrate International Hot ‘n’ Spicy Food Day by trying some of our XTREMES flavors: Cayenne Pepper, Ghost Pepper, and Carolina Reaper. Finally, the 2024 Blue Diamond Leadership Program participants visited the Sacramento site for the first session of the program where they were immersed in learnings and experiences from several industry experts!

ALMOND FACTS

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JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Valentine Peppermint Cupcakes Time: 35 minutes Difficulty: Easy Servings: 12

Ingredients Cupcakes 2¼ cups all-purpose flour 1 cup sugar 1½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt

Directions Cupcakes 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl with a whisk. 3. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup almondmilk, oil and vanilla. 4. Add wet ingredients to dry. Stir until just combined. 5. Divide batter evenly among 12 muffin cups lined with muffin liners, lightly sprayed with cooking spray. 6. Bake 20 minutes at 350°F or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Cool in pan 5 minutes. Remove to a wire rack to cool completely. Frosting 1. To prepare frosting, combine frosting, remaining tablespoon of almondmilk, peppermint extract and food coloring. Beat with an electric mixer until fluffy. 2. Frost cupcakes. Lightly place heart shaped cutter in center of a cupcake; carefully drop or spoon in mini chocolate chips. Press chips lightly into the frosting. Remove cutter. Repeat with remaining cupcakes and chocolate chips.

Frosting 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon Almond Breeze ® Vanilla Almondmilk; divided ½ cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 can (16 oz.) regular or dairy-free vanilla frosting ½ – ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract 1 drop red food coloring Small heart shaped cookie cutter 2 Tablespoons mini chocolate chips; divided

ALMOND FACTS

Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Difficulty: Easy Servings: 4

Ingredients 3 tablespoons ghee, divided 4 (3-4 oz.) salmon fillets 1 teaspoon salt, divided 1 teaspoon paprika ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon pepper, divided

1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in ¼ cup water 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper 2 cups cooked white or brown rice, warmed

1 small shallot, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend ¼ cup chicken broth 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions 1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons ghee. Pat salmon dry and season with ½ teaspoon salt, paprika, garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon pepper. 2. Sear salmon, flesh side down, about 2-3 minutes, until browned. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes, until salmon is mostly cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.

3. To the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon ghee. Add shallot and cook until softened, then stir in garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend , broth and lemon juice. Bring to a boil. 4. Stir in cornstarch slurry, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened. Stir in parsley and red pepper. Add salmon and cook about 5 minutes.

5. Serve salmon and sauce over rice. Refrigerate leftovers.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

CORNERING THE MARKET

Blue Diamond Introduces New Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend Blue Diamond recently launched a new addition to its selection of Almond Breeze ® products: Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend. This product combines the delicious flavor of California almonds with the creaminess of oat for a new dairy-free milk. The Almond & Oat Blend contains more calcium than dairy milk, fewer calories and less sugar than other oatmilks on the market.

According to a recent survey of 2,000 American adults commissioned by Almond Breeze ® , nearly half (48%) of respondents said their top health-related goal for the new year was eating healthier. Additionally, 45% of participants noted they would make healthier decisions if they were able to find options that tasted good. “We know that eating healthier is on the forefront of a lot of consumers’ minds and are excited to offer this product that is both delicious and nutritious,” said Maya Erwin, Vice President of Innovation and R&D at Blue Diamond . “ Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend not only provides a great taste and creamy texture, but it is also a healthier alternative to other oatmilks.” A one-cup serving of Almond Breeze ® Almond & Oat Blend contains only four grams total sugar, 45 calories, and 450 milligrams of calcium, with 30% less sugar¹ and 50% fewer calories than the national average of the leading original oatmilk brands. It also contains 50% more calcium² than dairy milk. It can be enjoyed by the glass, with coffee or cereal, or can be used in place of dairy milk in any usage occasion. It is great for consumers with lactose allergies or sensitivities, or for those who enjoy non-dairy beverages and cooking with plant-based alternatives. Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend will be available in grocery stores and major retailers beginning January 2024. For more information on Almond Breeze ® and other almondmilk varieties, visit AlmondBreeze .com.

Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend is great for those who enjoy non-dairy beverages and cooking with plant-based alternatives.

¹ Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend has 45 calories and 4g total sugar per serving. The leading national original oatmilk brands on average contain 110 calories and 6g total sugar per serving. ² One cup of dairy milk contains 25% DV (300mg) of calcium vs. one cup of Almond Breeze ® Original Almond & Oat Blend contains 35% DV (450mg) of calcium.

ALMOND FACTS

Blue Diamond Launches Almond Breeze ® Drinking Yogurt in Thailand with Brand Ambassador Thanaerng-Kanyawee Songmuang

Blue Diamond Growers is excited to announce the expansion of its Almond Breeze ® product line in Thailand’s dynamic, health-conscious market. The brand is launching Almond Breeze ® Drinking Yogurt, the first plant-based drinking yogurt in the market. The product is a blend of high-quality almondmilk yogurt and real fruit juices, available in two flavors: Tropical Fruit and Mixed Berries. This launch is a significant step for Blue Diamond reinforcing its position in the rapidly growing plant-based market segment. To appeal to a new generation of health-savvy consumers, Thanaerng- Kanyawee Songmuang, a talented actress, model and fashion icon, has been appointed as the brand ambassador. This partnership aims to amplify the brand’s reach and resonance with a younger demographic.

alternatives that contribute to our consumers’ overall well-being. In line with this, our goal is to continually introduce products that are not only nutritious and delicious, but also align with health-conscious choices. In Thailand, our dedication to delivering these healthy and flavorful options is

Yogurt, featuring a unique almondmilk yogurt and real fruit juice combination, is a first in Thailand. It is aimed at health-conscious and vegan consumers, as well as the new generation seeking tasty, healthy, and affordable daily drink options.” Each 70-calorie box offers a delicious experience, available in two flavors: Tropical Fruit, featuring kiwi, mango, and pineapple, and Mixed Berries, blending cranberries, red grapes, and blueberries. The product not

unwavering, as we continue to innovate and lead in the journey towards a healthier, more vibrant future for our consumers.” Khun Vasatorn Phonphaisan, an executive at Heritage Group, stated, “In response to the rising health trend and the expanding variety of plant-based food and beverages, Blue Diamond Almond Breeze ® is committed to enhancing the taste and benefits of almondmilk. Our new Almond Breeze ® Drinking

Nitin Batra, Managing Director for Asia at Blue Diamond Growers , highlighted the company’s dedication to enhancing health and wellness through its products. “At Blue Diamond Growers , we are committed to offering our customers the goodness of California almonds through a variety of products made using high quality almonds. We strive to provide healthy

only offers an excellent taste but is also a rich source of calcium and vitamin E and is cholesterol-, dairy-, soy- and gluten-free. Additionally, the many benefits from this plant- based drinking yogurt make it a versatile and healthy beverage choice for daily consumption. This innovative almondmilk yogurt makes delicious, healthy beverage

Blue Diamond Growers partnered with actress Thanaerng-Kanyawee Songmuang to amplify the brand’s reach and resonate with a younger demographic.

choices accessible to everyone, every day.

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

GROWING THE GOODNESS

Austin Jackson Joins Blue Diamond as Regional Manager In December 2023, Austin Jackson joined Blue Diamond as Regional Manager in Eastern Stanislaus County where he will manage the communications and relationships of members, hullers, and industry providers, as well as collaborating with the Membership team on special projects. Austin was born and raised in Escalon, California in a farming family and has spent the bulk of his career involved in agricultural production. He was, most recently, employed at the South San Joaquin Irrigation District (SSJID), where he served as Division Manager. He holds a BS in Business Administration from California State University Stanislaus while he also worked for a diversified farming operation in San Joaquin County. At that ranch they farmed walnuts, alfalfa, fresh market tomatoes, wheat and corn. Austin lives in Escalon with his wife and two-year-old daughter. Austin enjoys spending time with his family, and if time allows, he can be found hunting, fishing, golfing and snacking on his favorite Blue Diamond product, Smokehouse.

Getting to Know Blue Diamond Regional Manager, Nicole Jansen

Nicole Jansen is excited to join the Blue Diamond team as Regional Manager for Solano, Yolo, and Colusa Counties. She had previously lived or worked in all three of the counties she will be serving. She will manage communications and relationships of members, hullers, and industry providers, as well as collaborating with the Membership team on special projects. Jansen has spent the majority of her career in the seed business, coming from Corteva Pioneer, where she served growers across the western U.S. as Western Product Manager. Recently, she worked for Henderson Hulling, a key Huller partner in the industry and anticipates bringing a high level of service to the members in her district.

ALMOND FACTS

Nicole is a proud graduate of Modesto Junior College and California State University, Chico where she earned a BS in Agricultural Business, and minored in Crop Science. Jansen was born and raised in Woodland where her family has been connected to agriculture for seven generations. Today, she, her husband and two-year-old daughter call Colusa home. In her free time, Nicole enjoys spending time with family, gardening, traveling, and hunting with her family. She remains an active participant in 4-H and FFA and continues to serve as a leader and volunteer. Her current favorite Blue Diamond product is Wasabi & Soy, but she is exploring new favorites every day now that she has joined Blue Diamond .

JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

GROWING THE GOODNESS

Stan Craig Celebrates 50 Years of Service with Blue Diamond ! In September 2023, Stan Craig of Blue Diamond Growers, celebrated 50 years of employment with the cooperative. We asked him to share parts of his story from how he joined the company to his experience working in our Sacramento facility over these past 50 years. What led you to start working at Blue Diamond Growers and what motivated you to continue working with the cooperative? “I graduated from high school in 1973. My choices were to attend school, get a job, or go into the service. I had heard about working for Blue Diamond from my neighbors. Their whole family worked here. I waited in line with hundreds of people out in front of [the] “California Almond Grower’s Exchange” that went out the front door and all the way down 16 th street to put in an application. Everyone wanted

this job. When I got the call, I said I’d start [on] Monday. At the time I planned to stay for 10 years max. Now it’s been over 50 years and I’ve never left, still riding my bike to work nearly every day. I like a physical job where I’m moving. [ Blue Diamond ] has always fairly compensated their employees, had great people, and I’ve always felt like I’m part of a team.” Stan states that the aspect of the Blue Diamond culture that resonates with him the most is “Work as Partners.” “For as long as I’ve been with Blue Diamond , safety was a top priority and people are encouraging. You really feel like you’re contributing to the company. As you learn more, you gain confidence and your speed improves. My very first supervisor, John Lacey, really made me feel welcome. He never talked down to me, was a great trainer, and spoke very highly of the company [and] had a positive attitude.”

For as long as I’ve been with Blue Diamond, safety was a top priority and people are encouraging. You really feel like you’re contributing to the company.

ALMOND FACTS

We believe in recognizing achievements big and small. Can you share a moment when you felt truly appreciated for your contributions over the years? “Years ago, there was an area we needed to clean out, but I felt the way we were cleaning the area was unsafe. I turned my idea for improvement in, and within a matter of days, Blue Diamond modified it. There were many times that happened.

Safety has always been a priority and changes [are] always quickly made to maintain this priority.

“Years ago, we had a quality issue where we had to evaluate each triwall to identify the depth of the issue. This was a job no one wanted to do, but I knew that if I had to do it, I was going to do it right. We completed this task and it made me feel really accomplished. All my jobs have just been a really good experience. Great people. An experience you’d get nowhere else.” On behalf of everyone at Blue Diamond Growers, we thank you, Stan, for an amazing career and for the many years you’ve served our wonderful cooperative!

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JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

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11/9/22 9:27 AM

ADVOCACY REPORT

Federal Update and the Current Washington Situation

2023 was one of the most politically tumultuous years in history. As the country enters 2024, Congress faces lots of unfinished business and a turbulent election landscape. For many years, Julian Heron has contributed to the Advocacy Report in addition to serving as Blue Diamond Growers ’ federal advocate in Washington, D.C. As the cooperative enters the new year, Heron has transitioned advocacy leadership to Lynn Jacquez and Stacy McBride, federal advocates and longtime associates of Heron. Heron remains a partner and friend of Blue Diamond Growers on Capitol Hill.

Lynn Jacquez

Stacy McBride

With over twenty-five years of experience in Washington, D.C., Lynn has earned a reputation as one of the most effective bipartisan advocates in federal public policy on a broad range of issues. In her

Stacy McBride is the Executive Vice President of Federal Government Affairs at Husch Blackwell Strategies (HBS). McBride is an experienced public policy strategist whose diligent work over

law practice with JPH Law she specializes in workforce development and training, labor law and employment- based immigration policy. Her advocacy practice covers a wide range of issues including rural development, sustainable agriculture, trade, infrastructure, goods movement, energy and air quality and local government funding. Lynn specializes in identifying federal policy and funding opportunities within the congressional appropriations process and creating critical programs in the authorization process. Clients benefit from her in-depth knowledge of the legislative and regulatory process — from drafting legislative provisions, to developing strategy, to securing enactment, and to impacting the regulatory process for implementation.

twenty years in Washington has earned her the respect and friendship of leading elected officials of both parties on Capitol Hill. Before joining HBS in March 2023, Stacy served eight years as Chief of Staff and Committee Staff Director to U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt as he led the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, the Republican Policy Committee and served as Vice Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference. Earlier in her career, Stacy served as the Republican Subcommittee Staff Director for the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies and as a Special Assistant in the Commissioner’s Office of the Food and Drug Administration.

Lynn is a member of the District of Columbia Bar.

ALMOND FACTS

Federal and Congressional Update Congress begins the second session of the 118 th Congress facing a significant amount of unfinished business from the first session, which may go down in history as one of the most tumultuous years in the history of the House of Representatives. In October, California Congressman Kevin McCarthy became the first Speaker in history to be ousted, ultimately leading to McCarthy’s decision to retire at the end of 2023. The House took 21 days to elect a new Speaker — Rep. Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Congressman from Shreveport, LA. The new Speaker has a razor thin majority to resolve federal government funding, federal tax policy and expiring provisions of the Farm Bill.

In November, Congress pushed a decision on federal government funding into early 2024. In mid-January, realizing it could not meet its previously set deadlines to pass full-year appropriations bills, Congress passed another continuing resolution to extend funding until early March. Using a new approach, Speaker Johnson divided government funding into two large continuing resolutions — providing continued funding to four major departments until March 1 and to the rest of the government until March 8. Funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is in the first resolution and will expire on March 1 unless Congress acts before then. On January 7, House Leadership and the White House announced an agreement on a $1.59 trillion topline for discretionary spending. This agreement may stave off another government shutdown

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JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

ADVOCACY REPORT

or a yearlong continuing resolution. Under the terms of the debit limit deal passed in 2023, this would force automatic funding cuts to almost every program in the government, including significant cuts to USDA programs. The Administration has requested additional funding for the wars in Ukraine and Israel as well as a domestic funding request that included $2.8 billion for farmers and ranchers experiencing losses due to natural disasters. If enacted, this additional funding could provide assistance to California growers suffering losses from Hurricane Hilary. Negotiations on Ukraine- and Israel-related funding have been tied to Congressional Republicans’ request for substantial immigration reform. This conversation has largely drowned out discussions on the domestic funding for farmers, leading federal advocates to discuss the need for disaster funding with the California delegation directly. The conversation on immigration has thus far been focused on border crossings and not on the significant workforce needed by agriculture producers. An agreement on both issues remains elusive. Congress also failed to pass a 5-year Farm Bill and extended Farm Bill programs through September 30, 2024. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glen “GT” Thompson and Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow now face the daunting task of trying to pass a Farm Bill during an election year. Expect a lot of discussion and Committee action on this in the coming year. Conventional wisdom dictates that if anything is going to happen smoothly this year, both Chambers will need to act on the Farm Bill before the month-long August recess when member focus typically shifts to campaigns and elections. While both Committees have held hearings on Farm Bill programs, neither has introduced its own version of the Farm Bill as a starting point for negotiations. Advocacy efforts by growers are critical to advancing our Farm Bill priorities. Election years have a way of grinding Congress to a halt, which means a great deal of activity at the Federal level in the form of administrative action by Federal Government agencies. The Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services are embarking on an update for the Dietary Guidelines for Americans to set nutrition standards for 2025-

2030. The USDA and FDA are also proposing changes to nutrition standards for school meals and mandatory food package labeling, changes that we continue to monitor for impacts on the almond industry. The President has been invited by the Speaker of the House to provide the State of the Union address on March 7. During this speech, we will learn more about the President’s election year priorities and he will outline his budget, which will be delayed until after he has addressed the nation. International Update On the trade front, engagement by our growers with the California delegation led to a letter pressing the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to engage the Government of Turkey to remove burdensome tariffs on the domestic almond industry. The USTR has engaged the issue and is presently working to schedule meetings with the Government of Turkey. Attacks on shippers in the Red Sea continue to present challenges. The U.S. Government has diverted military resources to the area as a part of Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect shipping lanes but stopping nimble drone attacks is difficult. Shippers are being forced to forgo shipping through the Suez Canal and reroute around the Cape of Good Hope in Africa. This adds significant time and expense to exports. Election Update And finally, 2024 is an election year. The race to temporarily replace former Speaker McCarthy in his California district is on. Governor Gavin Newsom has set March 19 as the special election date to fill the remainder of McCarthy’s term. With the passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein in September, the state has scheduled a special election to fill the remainder of her term. The Special Primary election will be held on March 5, and the Special General Election will coincide with the General Election vote for other office holders on November 5. On December 28, the Secretary of State published the list of eligible candidates for both races. President Joe Biden is running for re-election in the Democratic primary, largely unopposed. The Republican primary started out crowded but has narrowed to two main

ALMOND FACTS

front-runners: former President Donald Trump and former South Carolina Governor and United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley. If current polling is any indication, voters can expect the 2024 race for the White House to be a re-match of the 2020 election.

Lynn Jacquez Of Counsel, JPH Law Firm, Senior Advisor, Husch Blackwell Strategies

Stacy McBride, Executive Vice President, Federal Government Affairs at Husch Blackwell Strategies

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JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

IN YOUR ORCHARD

THE BEE BOX

Preparing Your Orchard for February’s Busy Bees For most of us, the beginning of the year brings with it a welcome hiatus from the busy holiday season and marks the start of our ambitious New Year’s resolutions. For California’s almonds, the frenzied arrival of honey bee colonies from around the country hails in the New Year, with beekeepers and growers alike preparing for the fast-approaching almond bloom. These bees are responsible for pollinating around 80% of the world’s supply of almonds¹ — an impressive feat for both the humans and bees involved in growing almonds! This article provides a brief overview of our almonds’ dedicated pollinators, the many challenges facing commercial honey bees, and what growers can do right now to keep their hive rentals happy and productive during almond bloom.

Ensuring Healthy Honey Bees For Pollination Pollinators are essential to our food system and environment. Due to a combination of factors, there has been a notable decline in pollinator

populations across the United States. Commercial beekeepers continue to experience winter hive losses of around 40% each year. (Or an average of $200 million in economic losses for the beekeeping industry every year!)³ The lengthy list of challenges facing our nation’s pollinators includes disease pressure, pesticide exposure, parasites, and lack of forage — just to name a few. Other environmental conditions, such as extreme weather events and biodiversity losses caused by climate change, amplify these existing constraints, complicating our understanding and ability to manage these issues. Fluctuating winter conditions significantly impact a colony's health. Honey bees spend much of the fall collecting and storing nectar in preparation for winter hibernation. Warm winters and temperature fluctuations cause bees to break their winter cluster and consume their stored food. This requires beekeepers to keep up costly feedings and other interventions to conserve the colonies' health throughout the chilly winter months. To manage these issues and keep colonies as healthy and almond-ready as possible, beekeepers employ several strategies to care for their bees over winter. Some beekeepers chose to overwinter their hives in states with warmer winter climates Figure 1: The almond bloom prompts the largest “pollination migration” on the planet, bringing up to 90% of the country’s honeybees into California’s almond orchards. In 2010, honey bees contributed $19.2 billion to the U.S. economy through pollination services. ² Credit: Project Apis m. (based on National Geographic’s “Bees on the Move.”)

ALMOND FACTS

such as Florida, Texas or California. However, hives are trucked in from all over the country, from states like Maine, New York, North Carolina, Washington, Idaho just to name a few. Many more beekeepers from colder areas are beginning to overwinter their hives in indoor cold storage. While not new, this practice has become more technologically advanced over the years and is a way to

within the hive as a mite treatment instead of using costly chemicals. From the cold storage facility, beekeepers can also select strong hives to split, taking one hive and splitting it in two to increase the number of hives in their operation. Records show that colonies that receive this special handling are “on average 2-3 frames larger in almond pollination, and about 95% of them are double deeps.”³

hold bees in hibernation at a steady temperature. Many beekeepers now view indoor storage as an “insurance policy”…they know that if they put healthy colonies into storage, the more likely they are to get healthy colonies out. This “insurance” aids the grand effort of providing enough hives to pollinate billions of almond blooms in California’s vast orchards. The practice is spreading and cold- weather states aren’t the only ones adopting this practice! A fourth generation beekeeping operation located in the desert of Southern California has started using cold storage to beat the heat during the hot summer months. After the bees pollinate almonds, they are brought back home to the Salton Sea to make honey during spring and early summer. Once the honey has been harvested and temperatures start rising by mid-summer (average daily temperatures of ~105°F), bees are prepped to be brought inside from the extreme heat. Artificial winter conditions offer safer and more comfortable temperatures for the crew to work in, and it is less labor-intensive for the beekeeper to manage dormant bees from one central location. This allows the beekeepers to inspect bees, assess colony strength, and utilize a brood break, where the queen stops laying eggs for a period of time, thus reducing the period when varroa can attack bee larvae

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JANUARY–FEBRUARY 2024

IN YOUR ORCHARD

Growers Can Provide Beneficial Forage Bee populations are naturally at their lowest after winter; they come out of cold storage or overwintering apiaries and are moved straight into almond orchards. These bees have not had anything to forage for months so winter cover crops provide much-needed nutrition to weary bees awaiting the signal that winter is over. If planted in the early fall, cover crops can provide this critical food source even before almond bloom. When bees find the first pollen of the new year, it triggers a positive feedback loop throughout the hive. Available pollen from cover crops stimulates even more bees to forage which leads to larvae rearing. Finally, their strength and numbers increases before the marathon of almond pollination begins!

Suffice it to say, emerging best management practices for indoor cold storage helps to reduce winter losses, lower costs and ensure healthier hives are arriving to pollinate your almonds. 4 Starting the year off in almonds can go one of two ways for bees — almonds can provide a beneficial environment that pollinators thrive in, or beekeepers and growers chance bringing bees into potentially unsafe conditions. This risks harming the very insect we rely on most. The almond’s close bond with honey bees can serve as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect this essential relationship. The healthier the honey bees are, the more efficient they are at their job, which directly contributes to orchard yields. To get the most out of your hive rental and to create a safe place for honey bees to forage and pollinate, here is a review of honey bee best practices to use in your orchards.

Planting cover crops has exceptional advantages for both beekeepers and farmers by providing valuable soil benefits in the orchard alongside ample provisions for pollinators. Many beekeepers are willing to offer discounts on hive rentals if they know their bees are moving into an orchard with cover crops that guarantee access to critical nutrition and beneficial forage. 5 Growers Can Provide Water for Bees Honey bees require access to clean water sources. Since standing water from the orchard may be contaminated with pesticides or sprays that are toxic to bees, providing

Large indoor storage facilities can hold thousands of colonies. When the time is right, colonies can then be trucked directly out of the storage building and to the almonds before the bloom. Credit: Project Apis m.

ALMOND FACTS

IN YOUR ORCHARD

buckets or tubs of water is critical for the hives. Water should be provided as soon as possible after bees arrive in your orchard. Doing so ensures bees spend more time pollinating instead of searching for water. Make certain containers are new or clean of any hazardous materials, such as chemicals or other potentially harmful residues. Bees will need a “landing area” in the water container, such as screens or fabric draped across the top of the water or rocks or straw to prevent drowning. 6 Growers Can Reduce Risks of Pesticide Exposure Almond growers are entrusted with the complicated task of protecting both their crop and visiting pollinators. An unintended consequence of crop-protection practices is the chance for bees to become casualties of pesticides and other agricultural sprays in the orchard. It is critical to consider honey bee health and pesticide exposure throughout the entire year, especially when bees are present. Below are some recommendations from the Almond Board of California’s Honey Bee BMP Guide(https://www.almonds.com/sites/default/ files/2020-12/BeeBPMs_12212020.pdf): DON’T: • Do not tank-mix or utilize adjuvants during almond pollination. • Do not hit any flying bees with any spray application materials. (Spray droplets negatively impact a bee’s ability to fly) • Do not apply insecticides during bloom. DO: • Do read labels, carefully follow directions, and avoid agricultural sprays that are toxic to bees or have a long residual. • Do bloom sprays at night which will minimize exposure to bees and pollen to chemicals. • Do replace water sources with fresh water after a treatment is made.

By taking these simple steps to reduce pesticide risks, growers can protect the bees on their property and build trust with their beekeepers, helping them return year after year with a healthy pollinating workforce. While almond production has tripled in California since 2002, the number of honey bee colonies has remained unchanged over the same period. 7 Increasing acreage and wide-ranging dependence on migratory pollination services places tremendous pressure on the entire system. Diminishing honey bee populations have impacts across the food system. Almonds (along with 90 other crops reliant on honey bees) play a critical role in this cycle, directly affecting whether bees decline or endure. Following Best Management Practices and providing forage and fresh water are just some of the ways the almond industry can continue to support the health and survival of our pollinators… your bees and trees will thank you! References: 1. “Honey Bees & Pollination.” Dietary Impact , National Honey Board, honey.com/bees-sustainability/honey- bees-pollination. Accessed 4 Jan. 2024. 2. “Pollination.” Bee Health Collective , Bee Health Collective, beehealthcollective.org/pollination. Accessed 4 Jan. 2024. 3. H opkins, B. and Kulhanek, K. (2022) Using cold storage for a brood break in one of the hottest places on Earth, Indoor Storage of Honey Bees . Available at: https:// www.projectapism.org/indoor-storage-of-honey-bees- blog/using-cold-storage-for-a-brood-break-in-one-of- the-hottest-places-on-earth (Accessed: 17 January 2024). Figure 2: Cover crops provide a critical food source for arriving bees. If planted strategically, cover crops can bloom before almond bloom. This early forage kick-starts your rented hives, so they are geared-up to pollinate almond blossoms. Credit: Project Apis m.

ALMOND FACTS

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