May-June 2026

This issue of Almond Facts highlights the launch of Blue Diamond's new logo, the exciting Blue Diamond-Venus Williams sweepstakes, and provides information on treating red leaf blotch in the almond orchards.

MAY-JUN 2026

NEWS, VIEWS, AND INDUSTRY INSIGHT

100 Years of Relevance & Counting 2026 Bloom & Crop Potential

Pre-harvest Considerations & Sample Evaluation

Why Influencers Matter

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MAY–JUN 2026

Contents

8 FIELD TEAM 10 THE COOPERATIVE EDGE 12 NEWS IN A NUTSHELL 20 CORNERING THE MARKET 22 GROWING THE GOODNESS 26 ADVOCACY REPORT 30 FIELD NOTES WITH MEL MACHADO 34 MARKET REPORT 38 IN YOUR ORCHARD

Why do influencers matter? Learn more about Blue Diamond Almondmilk’s strategic partnerships (Page 20)

Features 6 President’s Corner

30 The 2026 Bloom & Crop Potential Forecasting the production of any crop involves detailed analysis of the factors affecting the bloom, as well as the conditions prior to and after bloom. Chief Ag Officer, Mel Machado, dives into the factors that complicate crop estimates as well as Blue Diamond ’s own forecast. 44 Pre-harvest Considerations & Sample Evaluation This article outlines key pre-harvest considerations for almond growers including navel orangeworm management, wet weather harvest strategies, and quality preservation. Also learn how almond deliveries are sampled, graded, and evaluated in Blue Diamond Growers ’ test rooms.

Kai Bockmann discusses the final stretch before harvest season, the projected 2026 almond crop of 2.69 billion pounds, continued growth in the non-dairy category led by Almond Breez e®, and ongoing efforts to strengthen snack nut sales and global customer relationships. Former board member Ken Roos is remembered for his legacy and many contributions. 10 A Century of Relevance…and Counting Marking 116 years since the founding of Blue Diamond Growers , Dr. Keri Jacobs reflects on how the cooperative model remains as relevant today as it was in 1910 by helping growers collectively address enduring challenges such as market volatility, concentrated market power, and the need for greater control across the agricultural value chain.

ON THE COVER: Blue Diamond looks forward to another crop as the spring months wane and summer approaches.

MAY–JUNE 2026

Kai Bockmann, President and CEO

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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ALMOND FACTS

MAY–JUNE 2026

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

As the days get longer and the summer season ramps up, we continue to push forward on all fronts toward the end of our fiscal year. These next three months will be important ones for us as we approach the finish line to harvest season. It was great to see many of you at the

on schedule or ahead of schedule, including the Sacramento plant closure work. Even though the non-dairy beverage category has been under some pressure, we’re continuing to grow, and Almond Breeze ® has moved into the number one spot among non-dairy brands. Our Blue Diamond Almondmilk, which comes in a premium bottle and is offered in four flavors, is made with 75% more almonds per serving than leading almondmilk brands. It is making its mark, attracting new consumers and reinforcing our momentum in the non- dairy category. On the snack nut side, overall, the category is still facing headwinds, but we’re seeing encouraging signs. Our spring and summer rebrand campaign is running through July with new packaging on shelves designed to attract customers to our delicious almonds. If you haven’t come across it yet, our Sour Cream & Onion Snack almonds are now in Walmart for a limited time and well worth a try! Right now, our team is on the ground at INC World Nut and Fruit Congress, connecting with customers and keeping Blue Diamond front and center. Despite some of the disruption we’re seeing internationally, we’ve continued to move business forward and we’re staying on track. We’ll have more updates when the team returns from their travels.

Grower Liaison Committee meetings earlier in May. Our goal is for you to come away with valuable information and feel confident that your questions were answered. During those conversations, we shared updates on our next‑generation variety efforts and the USDA grant, which is now underway with implementation planned for the fall. I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at the District Meetings in July where we’ll continue the discussion. By now, many of you may have read through our first Crop Estimate Report. In the report, we estimate the 2026 almond crop at about 2.69 billion pounds, which falls right in the expected range of 2.675 to 2.72 billion pounds and lines up with what we’ve seen in recent seasons. A huge thank you goes out to the teams who worked hard to pull this together. Just so you can get a sense of how much effort went into the report, our Membership team covered more than 12,000 miles across the valley collecting information. We will share further updates in our June Market Report and July Crop Forecast Report, and keep you informed as we get closer to harvest. Across the business, the next few months are important, and we’re staying focused. Activities tied to our strategic plan are either

Kai Bockmann President & CEO

ALMOND FACTS

Finally, and on a different note, although I did not have the privilege of working directly with him, I want to take a moment to remember Ken Roos, who recently passed away and served on the Blue Diamond board for 15 years. Many of you who worked alongside him saw firsthand the deep sense of duty to his family, his community, and his work. He built a thriving farming operation, used his engineering and Army background to innovate equipment still used today, and, during his time on the board, pushed for greater stability and stronger returns for growers. His legacy remains a defining part of who we are today as Blue Diamond . As we reflect on his legacy, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and support. Looking ahead, there’s meaningful work before us, and I’m confident in the path we’re on and grateful to be on this journey together. I look forward to continuing the conversation with many of you at our District Meetings in July.

Kai Bockmann President & CEO

MAY–JUNE 2026

FIELD TEAM

Regional Managers

Director, Supply Chain Strategy & Membership Kabir Tumber (916) 291-8342

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 Avenue, West of Derrick Avenue Ashley Correia, (559) 356-1584 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 Daniel Dekeyrel Member Relations Coordinator (Delivery Tags) (209) 545-6261 & Stuhr Roads, North of Hwy 140 Kenny Miyamoto, (209) 323-8454

Chief Agricultural Officer Mel Machado (209) 545-6222 – Salida (209) 531-6352 – Cellular

ALMOND FACTS

2026 Grower Liaison Committee Members

LEGEND

DISTRICT 1

DISTRICT 2

Kelli Evans Dan Cummings P. Samantha Lewis Larry Bradley Luke Konyn

Michael Doherty John Monroe Elaine Rominger Gerald Rominger Catherine Marsh Michael Samra Jacob Amsler Dustin Timothy Sid LaGrande Jonnalee Dunn Joshua Campbell Ryan Finnen Ashley Dowden Joe Ferrini Joe Martinez Gabe Grimmer

Chair Vice-Chair Ex-Officio Director

Tom Knowles Steve Carlos

Michael Montz Brian Erickson Ray Antonowich Daniel Varner Fred Montgomery Mark Mead

DISTRICT 3 Dale Van Groningen John Thoming Tim Mohler Jeff Stuit Clayton Bogetti Don Freitas Andrew Kamper John Almeida Jordan Van Vliet

DISTRICT 4

George te Velde Kevin Fondse Spencer Franceschetti Martin Adrian Lukas Doornenbal Ed Tilma John de Visser Scott Sand Wayne Bruns Joe Martin Connor Wagner Dwain Zack

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

Nathan Mussi Michael Petz Zack Reinstein

DISTRICT 5

DISTRICT 6

DISTRICT 8

DISTRICT 9

DISTRICT 7

Stephen Van Duyn Neil Van Duyn James Kinzie Gordon Heinrich Chris Vanderstoel Jon Beck Jonathan Flora

Nick Blom Charles Crivelli III Steve Vilas Steve Scheuber Allen Peterson Jeff Lee Matt Romero John Hack Stan Chance Trevor Cordova Don Clark Bob Marchy Patrick Machado Bart Muller

Matt Efird George Goshgarian John Locker Andrew Cunha Ryan Metzler Michael Keith Smith Ranvir Tung Mitch Bagdasarian Mike Mohammadi Steve Bains Jay Mahil Macklin Riffel

Kent Stenderup Clinton Shick Ankit Behl Sam Ghilarducci Garrett Gilcrease John Allen Doug Kindig Brian Medeiros Karmjeet Jhandi Keith Gilbert Lisa Marroquin Harjinder Gill Mark Tos

Dan Mendenhall Steve Moeller John Pereira Bryan Jacobs Rick Scoto Dante Migliazzo Paul Atwal Minda Nespoli Jed Kruppa Steve Moreda Scott Sherman Dan Smith

Bob Kulina Cody Vella

Naomi Layland Garrett Bowman Brandon Riddle Paul Vermeulen

MAY–JUNE 2026

THE COOPERATIVE EDGE

A Century of Relevance…and Counting

Would you be surprised to hear someone say that the core challenges facing agricultural producers today are not all that different than they were 116 years ago?

At first pass, that claim feels naïve. Today’s growers operate in a world of global markets, rapidly advancing technology, and increasingly complex supply chains. But step back and ask a more fundamental question: What is at the heart of the challenges growers, producers, and ranchers face? Market risk. Price volatility. Concentrated market power. Disparate influence in policy and regulation relative to larger, integrated competitors. And intense, and growing, capital requirements. In 1922, Congress passed the Capper-Volstead Act. It was a defining moment for agricultural producers and their associations. The Act established that farmers “may act together” to collectively process, handle, and market their products, providing a limited exemption from antitrust laws that would otherwise prohibit such coordination. Before its passage, producers risked legal action under existing antitrust laws simply for working together to improve their market position. Capper- Volstead recognized the structural imbalance between fragmented producers and concentrated buyers,

and it provided a lawful pathway for growers to build countervailing power while still preserving safeguards against monopolistic outcomes. But the economic logic and wisdom for cooperation did not wait for regulatory recognition in 1922. The month of May marked an important milestone: the founding of The California Almond Growers Exchange (“The Exchange”), Blue Diamond Growers ’ original name. In 1910, almond growers organized in response to their realities: fragmented selling, inconsistent quality, limited access to reliable buyers, and price volatility driven by intermediaries who held disproportionate market power. Individually, growers lacked the scale and coordination to influence outcomes. Collectively, they could pool product, standardize quality, invest in processing and marketing, and approach the market with greater consistency and leverage. In doing so, they addressed the same core challenges producers face today: market risk, power imbalances, coordination constraints, and the need for capital to move beyond the farm gate. That 1910 decision by 230 almond growers fundamentally reshaped their trajectory and that of today’s grower. It created a platform for coordination, investment, and market participation that would not have been possible otherwise. At its core, a cooperative is — and indeed, The Exchange was — an investment made by producers into their own supply chain. It extends ownership and control beyond the farm gate into processing, branding, distribution, and market development where a significant share of value is created from commodities. Without such ownership and control, much of the margin generated downstream accrues elsewhere. With it, producers protect their pathway and mechanisms to participate in that value creation and

ALMOND FACTS

benefit from it. But the model is defined by more than ownership and control. Cooperatives exist to improve producer outcomes by putting them at the core of their purpose. Which brings us back to the opening question. The pressures that defined agriculture and the experiences and choices of producers in the early 1900s still define it today, only now at a different scale with arguably higher stakes. If the fundamental challenges facing producers have not materially changed, then neither has the relevance of the cooperative model. The

conditions that led almond growers to organize in 1910 – and that were formally recognized in 1922 with passage of Capper-Volstead – are still with us. The collective decisions made today by growers will shape whether and how they continue to invest in their shared future: strengthening their position in the value chain and ensuring that the value they create continues to return to their farms, their families, and their communities for generations to come. Happy birthday, Blue Diamond Growers , and wishes for a successful next 100 years!

Dr. Keri L. Jacobs is Executive Director of the Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership (GICL), associate professor of agricultural and applied economics, and Partridge Chair in Cooperative Leadership at the University of Missouri. She works with cooperative CEOs, management teams, and boards across the agricultural sector on governance, financial oversight, and the board’s role in strategy development. Through GICL, she designs and facilitates director and leadership development programs and regularly engages with cooperative boards on complex organizational issues. Her research and outreach are grounded in sustained collaboration with cooperatives and industry partners and focus on how collective action and cooperative structures can strengthen producers’ position within agricultural supply chains. Dr. Jacobs serves on the NCBA CLUSA Cooperative Economics Council and the Nationwide Board Council and is North Central Director for the Extension Section of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association. Raised on her family’s hog and row-crop farm in eastern Iowa, she holds a B.A. in economics from Coe College and a Ph.D. in agricultural economics from North Carolina State University.

Dr. Keri Jacobs, Executive Director,

Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership, and Partridge Chair in Cooperative Leadership, University of Missouri

1 1

MAY–JUNE 2026

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

# WeAreBlueDiamond Social Media Activity Blue Diamond leaders participated in a panel hosted by Agriland Farming with Trust in Food in Chowchilla. We celebrated our new packaging hitting store shelves, released our first crop estimate, and celebrated 116 years as a cooperative on May 6, our Founders Day!

ALMOND FACTS

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BLUE DIAMOND INVESTMENT PROGRAMS Current Investment Rates available as of January 1, 2026

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 January 1, 2026, for the program are listed here:

Short-Term Investment Certificate (STIC)

Long-Term Investment Certificate (LTIC) (Maturity Date of 6/30/2028)

Initial Investment Required

$10,000

$50,000

Interest Rate

4.00%

(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.

MAY–JUNE 2026

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Charcuterie Cones Cook Time: 10 minutes Difficulty: Medium Serves up to: 1

Ingredients Parchment paper Fresh rosemary sprig Olives Blue Diamond Wasabi & Soy Sauce flavored almonds Blue Diamond Hint of Sea Salt Nut-Thins Clementine segments Sharp cheddar Dried orange

Directions Parchment Paper Cone

Snack Sprigs 1. Next, create your rosemary snack sprigs. Remove all but the top leaves of a fresh rosemary sprig. 2. S kewer olives, or desired snack, onto the sprig and push them toward the top leaves. ( If sprig is weak, use a small skewer to create holes in the olives before placing them onto the rosemary .) 3. F ill your parchment cone to the top with Blue Diamond Wasabi & Soy Sauce Almonds. Insert your rosemary snack sprig into the almonds. Follow with a toothpick of clementine segments. 4. Lastly, balance Blue Diamond Nut-Thins Hint of Sea Salt crackers, sharp cheddar, dried orange, and a few more Wasabi & Soy Sauce almonds. 5. Serve alongside other flavor options, if desired!

1. Start by creating a parchment paper cone. Fold a square piece of parchment paper in half to create a triangle shape. 2. Rotate the triangle so that the top tip points toward you. 3. T hen, take the far right tip, and fold inward until it meets with the top tip and creates a cone shape. 4. Hold these tips together as you grab the far left tip with your other hand and tuck/wrap it underneath the cone. 5. Tighten all the tips until the three of them form an “M” shape — then fold the “M” inside of the cone, and press firmly to seal. 6. Take your parchment cone and set it into a small shot glass.

ALMOND FACTS

Coconut-Lime Banana Bread Cook Time: 82 minutes Difficulty: Medium Serves up to: 8 Ingredients 1 cup Almond Breeze® Unsweetened Original Almondmilk Coconutmilk 1½ cups mashed ripe banana ( about 3 bananas ) 2 cups all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup granulated sugar 2 Tablespoons butter; softened 2 large eggs 1 Tablespoon plus ¼ cup lime juice; divided 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup plus 2 Tablespoons sweetened flaked coconut; divided Cooking spray 1 cup powdered sugar

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

7. Spoon batter into a 9"x5" loaf pan coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons coconut. 8. B ake at 350° for 1 hour or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Loosely cover with foil during the final 15 minutes of baking if the top is getting too browned. Cool in pan 10 minutes on a wire rack. Remove from pan. 9. T o make the glaze, combine powdered sugar and ¼ cup lime juice; drizzle over warm bread. Cool completely on wire rack.

2. B ring coconut blend almondmilk to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Reduce to a high simmer. Cook until reduced to ¼ cup (about 7 minutes). Cool slightly. Combine with mashed bananas and set aside. 3. C ombine flour, baking soda, and salt. 4. Combine granulated sugar and butter in a large bowl with a mixer at medium until well blended. 5. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in reserved banana mixture, lime juice and vanilla. 6. Add flour mixture and beat at low speed just until combined. Stir in ½ cup coconut.

MAY–JUNE 2026

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Inshell Operations to Stay in Sacramento

Although Blue Diamond ’s Sacramento site is winding down most manufacturing and selling much of the property, inshell almond processing, which is critical to export demand and supply chain flexibility, will stay at the Sacramento campus, preserving about 90 employees. This adjustment reflects the ongoing effort to optimize Blue Diamond ’s processing network across California. While most of the production is transitioning to the Turlock and Salida facilities, the Sacramento site provides value for inshell processing, which already has a concentrated, efficient footprint. The decision helps balance two priorities: maximizing return on cooperative assets while ensuring continuity for vital international market product streams. The broader consolidation will reduce long-term operating costs and reinvest

in areas that directly support grower returns. Modernizing operations across the more efficient sites is expected to improve throughput, reduce handling costs, and align production closer to the core grower supply area.

ALMOND FACTS

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MAY–JUNE 2026

NEWS IN A NUTSHELL

Local Developer to Transform 35 Acres of Blue Diamond ’s Sacramento Campus into Landmark Mixed-Use Community Blue Diamond has selected Bardis & Miry Development, LLC, a Sacramento-based developer, to acquire approximately 35 acres of its midtown campus for a mixed-use project with 1,000 to 2,000 homes, ground-floor retail, and community amenities.

Bardis & Miry Development is a local firm with a strong track record in residential and historical infill development. Katherine Bardis-Miry and Bay Miry are accomplished independent developers with proven success in residential, historic infill, and urban revitalization projects. Bardis & Miry Development is completing its due diligence investigation, and more on design, phasing, and community engagement will be shared in the coming months.

“We’re excited about this next chapter for the site. Blue Diamond has been part of Sacramento’s story for generations, and we’re proud to play a role in shaping its future,” said Kai Bockmann, president & CEO for Blue Diamond . “The Blue Diamond plant site has been a part of Sacramento for over a century, and we are grateful for the opportunity to build on that legacy in a way that will serve the community for many years to come,” stated Katherine Bardis-Miry of Bardis & Miry Development.

ALMOND FACTS

The Blue Diamond plant site has been a part of Sacramento for over a century, and we are grateful for the opportunity to build on that legacy in a way that will serve the community for many years to come. —Katherine Bardis-Miry of Bardis & Miry Development

Bay Miry added “We are still in the preliminary stages, and all redevelopment options remain on the table as we thoroughly evaluate the site. Our initial vision includes a walkable, mixed-use community that feels authentic to Sacramento while delivering lasting economic and social value.” As part of the agreement, Blue Diamond has secured a three-year leaseback, ensuring corporate headquarters remain on the campus until at least April 2030. Blue Diamond will retain about 19 acres for inshell almond processing, and its corporate headquarters will remain in Sacramento. The cooperative is represented by Ken Turton of Turton Commercial Real Estate in the transaction.

The city of Sacramento has expressed strong enthusiasm for the development. Mayor Kevin McCarty and Councilmember Phil Pluckebaum, whose district includes the site, have also been key champions. Both have strongly supported the project for its potential to advance Sacramento’s housing goals while honoring Blue Diamond ’s legacy. Blue Diamond thanked both leaders for their partnership. With support from city, county, and state partners, the project can create a lasting Sacramento legacy that reflects its long investment in the community.

MAY–JUNE 2026

CORNERING THE MARKET

Why Influencers Matter: The Growth of Blue Diamond Almondmilk’s Trust and Reach Blue Diamond farmers know that producing high-quality almonds is only part of the success equation. Reaching consumers and earning their trust requires meeting them in more places and in more ways than ever before. That’s why Blue Diamond continues to enhance its

The New Word-of-Mouth Word-of-mouth has always been one of the most effective ways to build trust. Today, digital platforms allow that same dynamic to reach millions of consumers at once. Blue Diamond is leaning into that opportunity through a thoughtful influencer strategy designed to complement our overarching efforts to reach more people. Beginning in February and concluding in August, the entire advertising program is expected to generate approximately 555 million impressions, driven largely by influencer content across Instagram and TikTok. At the same time, a brand-new Blue Diamond video, which is running across Connected TV platforms and online video, will deliver 81 million impressions, ensuring consistent visibility across both premium and social channels. These efforts work together seamlessly: • Traditional and digital advertising establish brand awareness at scale • Influencer content reinforces those messages in everyday, trusted contexts Our Influencer Ecosystem Rather than relying on a single voice, Blue Diamond is building a broad “influencer ecosystem” to maximize reach and relevance: • Mid-tier influencers (6 creators): Established creators with at least half a million followers producing multiple pieces of content across Instagram and TikTok • Micro-influencers (15–20 creators): Creators with smaller followings who appeal to highly engaged, niche audiences

marketing mix by not just including traditional advertising vehicles, but following consumer behavior to incorporate more digital video, social media, and even launching this brand with a thriving network of influencers who help bring the goodness of almondmilk to life. Building Trust Through Multiple Voices Today, consumers engage with brands across a vast array of channels. While traditional advertising, such as streaming TV and digital video builds awareness, influencer content addresses the vital relatability factor and provides a trusted voice in the form of the new word-of-mouth. As consumers reconsider what products deserve a place in their refrigerators, influencers help demonstrate the practical, everyday role almondmilk can play in their coffee, breakfast, smoothies, and family routines. That kind of storytelling reinforces our brand’s messages in a more personal, experience-driven way. Consumers increasingly trust recommendations that feel integrated into real routines rather than traditional advertising alone. Industry research consistently shows that consumers place a high level of trust in recommendations from people they follow online, especially when those recommendations feel authentic and aligned with their lifestyles. Creators will showcase key product benefits, from the simple ingredient list in our simple flavors to the plant protein in Chocolate Protein. For almondmilk, that’s a powerful opportunity to connect with consumers through everyday, relatable moments.

ALMOND FACTS

Wren Jubilee (@wrenjubilee) Followers: Smaller, niche audience Background: Everyday lifestyle creator Focus: Relatable routines, authentic product use Perspective: Micro-influencers like Wren often build strong trust with their audiences, making their

• User-generated content (UGC): Dozens of additional creators sharing content through platforms like Skeepers and Kale In total, this approach will deliver: • Over 60 pieces of content from February through August • Up to 100 creators promoting Blue Diamond Almondmilk • A steady stream of content across platforms, formats, and audiences The goal is to create consistent visibility, so consumers don’t just encounter almondmilk in advertisements, but in real-life moments that matter to them. Meet the Influencers A few of the creators helping bring this campaign to life include:

recommendations feel personal and credible.

Why This Matters for Blue Diamond Member-Growers Millennials and Gen Z consumers increasingly discover and evaluate food and beverage brands through social platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where creators strongly influence perception and purchase decisions. For Blue Diamond Almondmilk, which is still building broader awareness in a competitive plant- based category, influencers are especially important for driving awareness, credibility, and product trial by showing how almondmilk fits naturally into everyday routines. Micro creators are particularly valuable because their smaller, highly engaged audiences tend to see them as more relatable and authentic, making their recommendations feel closer to trusted peer-to- peer endorsements. This approach isn’t about replacing traditional marketing but strengthening it. By combining broad- reach advertising with trusted, real-world storytelling, Blue Diamond is working to reinforce consumer confidence in almond-based products while reaching new audiences. Ultimately, this will help keep almonds competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace. At its core, the strategy builds on something growers have always understood: Trust increases demand. And the more ways we can earn trust, the stronger the future for Blue Diamond almonds.

Lindsay Arnold (@lindsarnold) Followers: ~2M+ Background: Professional dancer known from Dancing with the Stars Focus: Fitness, family life, wellness routines Perspective: Lindsay’s content reflects a balanced, health-

focused lifestyle, helping position almondmilk as a practical choice for busy families and active consumers. Ashley Paige (@ashley.paiige) Followers: ~500K+ Background: Lifestyle, food and beauty creator Focus: Wellness, nutrition, clean eating

Perspective: Ashley connects with consumers who prioritize healthy lifestyles, reinforcing almondmilk’s

role in supporting everyday wellness routines.

MAY–JUNE 2026

GROWING THE GOODNESS

Sacramento’s Pop-Up Nut Shop

To continue supporting our growers following the closure of the Sacramento Nut & Gift Shop we hope you enjoy our once-a-month Blue Diamond Sacramento Pop-Up Shop!

Pop-Up Shop Details: • Located in the current Sacramento Nut & Gift Shop space • Offers Blue Diamond almond products only, including gift boxes containing six-ounce cans • Outside vendor products, gift baskets or trays containing non- Blue Diamond items, and taxable items will not be available at the pop-up shop

Need to place a special order? Contact the Salida Nut & Gift Shop via phone (209) 545-3222 or email orders@bdgrowers.com for special orders. Please note there will be a 15-day lead time plus ground shipping. Subject to product availability

Want to send Blue Diamond gifts this holiday season?

Growers who enjoy giving Blue Diamond products as holiday gifts are encouraged to shop the Salida Nut & Gift Shop while in Modesto for the annual meeting this fall. For special orders to be shipped or picked up at the December pop-up shop, an order deadline of November 9 will apply. A flyer with available products and current pricing will be distributed ahead of the holiday season. Happy shopping!

2026 Blue Diamond Pop-Up Shop Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Pop-Up Shop Schedule:

June 10 June 30 August 5 September 3

October 7 November 4 December 2

ALMOND FACTS

Thank you to our tournament sponsors!

Hat Sponsor InsureCAL

Supreme Sponsor American Ag Credit

Great Success at the 2026 Blue Diamond Growers Foundation Golf Tournament On a warm, beautiful day at Brookside Country Club in Stockton, California, Blue Diamond hosted the annual Blue Diamond Growers Foundation Golf Tournament. The event welcomed 144 golfers for breakfast and a day on the course, followed by lunch and a raffle featuring 30 donated prizes. All funds raised support the Blue Diamond Growers Foundation, a 501(c)(3) that awards scholarships to college students pursuing four-year degrees in agriculture-related fields. Thank you to all the golfers who participated and to the many Blue Diamond volunteers who made the tournament a success. We are proud to support a worthy cause that strengthens the future of California agriculture.

Nonpareil Sponsors ABCO, Amcor, Button Transportation,

Certis Biologicals, CoBank, Flory, Vektor Logistics Inc., Hanson Bridgett LLP Carmel Sponsors Bank of Stockton, California Ag

Solutions, California Industrial Rubber, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, Cortez Growers Association, Crowe LLP, Dutch Nuts Inc., Fisher Phillips, Garton Tractor, Georgia- Pacific, J.B. Hunt, Niemela Pappas & Associates, OMC, Pacific Southwest Containers, S & T Partners, Valley Shelling, Van Duyn Family Farms, Van Groningen Orchards, Vermeulen Almond Hulling, Yosemite Farm Credit Raffle Sponsors BG Agri, Beelieve Company, BeeHero, Clendenin Orchards, Corteva, Dirks & Rinehart Shredding, Finnen Family, Grindstone Wines, Grow West (Maxwell Branch), Helena, Marsh Family, Te Velde Beef Company, Tos Farms Inc., Van Groningen Orchards, Wilbur-Ellis, Yosemite Farm Credit, Ziveli Winery

MAY–JUNE 2026

GROWING THE GOODNESS

Seven Years of Serving The GreenHouse!

Blue Diamond employees volunteered at The GreenHouse for the seventh Day in the Dirt service day. Thirty-six team members across two shifts along with the facilities team spent their day replacing garden beds, installing a gazebo for shade, replacing mulch in the garden, and doing general garden cleanup and maintenance. The GreenHouse staff shared their gratitude and has already expressed excitement for Blue Diamond returning in 2027. About The GreenHouse Our mission is to cultivate a thriving community by nurturing the emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and physical development of our youth and inspiring them to grow to their full potential.

The GreenHouse envisions youth who are: 1. Socially, Emotionally, and Spiritually Thriving. 2. Academically Successful. 3. Physically Healthy. 4. Growing to their Full Potential.

ALMOND FACTS

MAY–JUNE 2026

ADVOCACY REPORT

Beyond the Bin: Agriculture and California’s Packaging Future Since 2018, Ag Council has taken a leadership role in recycling and packaging issues relating to food and agricultural products given the potential impact on our members, including Blue Diamond Growers. In 2022, Governor Newsom signed SB 54 into law, requiring all single use plastics to become 100 percent compostable or recyclable by 2032. The Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging

and agricultural products that require the use of plastics due to mandatory federal regulations. Though the exclusion is not as helpful as initially proposed, our team is working diligently to create workable solutions for the food and ag sector. SB 54 broadly requires that all single use plastics be 100 percent compostable or recyclable by 2032. Impacts will be felt throughout the entire California economy well beyond food and agriculture, including single-use packaging from online retailers, as one example. Fees are also associated with differing types of plastics as part of the regulation. The goal of the fees is to assist with plastic mitigation and clean up, as well as building the necessary infrastructure to capture and recycle or compost

Producer Responsibility Act came together because of the increasing challenges of managing plastic waste in California. Costs have increased throughout the waste management system, and beach cleanup has been an ongoing issue for decades. Ultimately, the Legislature decided to shift the responsibility of plastic and other packaging management to the producers of packaging. Even before SB 54 was signed into law, Ag Council worked with CalRecycle and a broader agricultural coalition to provide for the use of plastics for food safety purposes, protect human health and prevent environmental issues. CalRecycle heard some of our concerns and created a “Categorical Exclusion” for food

ALMOND FACTS

packaging. The costs will be distributed throughout the supply chain; thereby, working against other affordability efforts taking place in Sacramento. Infrastructure is Lacking One of the obvious questions I receive is, “Does California have the infrastructure to manage an extensive recycling program for almost 40 million people?” The simple answer is, “No.” We do know that the cost to build a statewide waste management infrastructure will be monumental. While the funds collected may or may not go to improving the infrastructure in California — only time will tell. Some would say, this is putting the cart before the horse. Ag Council’s Dairy Committee Chair Melvin Medeiros said, “This is like buying 1,000 dairy cows and not having a barn to milk them in.” It will likely require state and federal partnerships to secure the funding needed to fully implement this regulation and build the necessary infrastructure. No doubt, the cost will be enormous. Driving Up Costs During an Affordability Crisis The fees that will be paid by producers into the regulatory system will likely be to the tune of millions of dollars annually per entity. Those of us in agriculture know that for most commodities, our farmers are price takers with little to no room to negotiate market prices. Technically, there is an on-farm exemption when it comes

to the use of plastics. However, plastics will be regulated throughout the supply chain and at the retail level. How will these costs manifest themselves throughout the system? It is highly likely some will push through to the marketplace, possibly further increasing food and agricultural prices, while some will have to be absorbed at the processing and farm level. The irony is not lost on us that while elected officials in California lament an affordability crisis, they continue to drive up costs throughout the supply chain with environmental mandates that have no obvious, cost- effective solutions. Coupled with the affordability crisis, California’s term limits work against us as these laws are passed and the original legislators that supported various bills have no obligation to follow-up to ensure they are successfully implemented, cost effective and workable. California legislators can pass bills and move on to their next job. As an example, the legislator who authored SB 54, is term limited this year. Patchwork of Regulations It is important to note that California’s version of this regulation was not the first in the nation. Oregon, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota and Washington have passed packaging laws, and several other states are considering similar legislation. So, while we work through our process in Sacramento, it is imperative that we work

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MAY–JUNE 2026

ADVOCACY REPORT

with the trade groups across the nation to harmonize the varying state regulations. Otherwise, having a patchwork of regulations would create additional costs and compliance issues for our food producers here at home. Ag Council Works Toward Soft Landing Ag Council is working with Blue Diamond and other members to identify opportunities and gaps within the regulation and the underlying statute. We have also

engaged CDFA Secretary Karen Ross on the issue. It is our hope that — for products requiring the use of plastics and other sanitary materials used for the purposes of food safety, food preservation and shelf life — we can create a clear compliance pathway that does not increase costs to the industry. Workable solutions are not easy to come by but will be found through deep conversations and a commitment to partnerships. Learn more about Ag Council at www.agcouncil.org.

Blue Diamond Team at the Legislative Conference

Meeting with Assemblymember Solache (center)

Blue Diamond Joins Ag Council’s Legislative Day at the State Capitol

Ag Council extends a special thanks to Blue Diamond Growers staff and farmers for participating in Ag Council’s Legislative Conference in Sacramento in early May where attendees connected with over 30 legislators and staff on crucial issues in the State Legislature. The day of outreach is an important tool for members to directly engage with state decision makers on legislation impacting your farm and cooperative. During the morning session, attendees heard from and had a Q&A session with Assembly GOP Leader Heath Flora (R-Ripon). The group also connected with Assembly Agriculture Committee Chair Esmeralda Soria

(D-Fresno) as she was recognized with Ag Council’s 2026 Influential Legislator Award for her efforts on water supply, supporting funding for ag-focused emissions reduction programs and pushing back on legislation detrimental to agriculture. Flora is a past recipient of the award. California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Secretary Karen Ross spoke with attendees during lunch and covered CDFA’s role in the legislative process and discussed current legislation affecting agriculture before she answered audience questions. Attendees then met with legislators and staff in their offices to discuss critical legislative issues. The

ALMOND FACTS

bills included: AB 2447 (Bauer- Kahan) nitrate/waste discharge programs (including ILRP), AB 1603 (Schultz) pesticides, AB 2646 (Krell) farmworker wages, and AB 2034 (Addis) food ingredients. Ag Council is urging legislators to oppose these bills. Participants also discussed the importance of legislative support to fund four vital emissions reduction programs significantly improving air quality in California: FARMER (ag equipment upgrades), the Food Production Investment Program (FPIP), ag waste sustainability (ag burning alternatives), and methane reduction programs. Many Blue Diamond member-growers have benefited from these programs, and the cooperative previously received FPIP grant funding to lower facility- generated emissions. Ag Council appreciates Alicia Rockwell and Liz Perez of Blue Diamond Grower s for helping to coordinate Blue Diamond ’s attendees. Thank you to all who participated.

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Emily Rooney, President, Ag Council of California

MAY–JUNE 2026

FIELD NOTES with MEL MACHADO

The 2026 Bloom and Crop Potential Forecasting the production of any crop involves detailed analysis of the factors affecting the bloom, as well as the conditions prior to and after bloom. While many in the industry consider official forecasts to be absolute, they are truly an estimate: “An approximate calculation or judgment of the value, number, quantity, or extent of something.”

we have a number for the industry’s bearing acreage, we do not truly know the harvested acreage. This has an influence on the industry’s calculated average yield. The difference between the official bearing acreage and the actual harvested acreage provides the first complicating factor in forecasting the crop. Winter Dormancy Following the heavy rains that created some havoc during the 2025 harvest, the 2025/2026 winter proved to be dry and warm. Most areas of the valley did not experience frosty mornings until early January. Fortunately, almond trees require less chilling than other crops. 200 to 500 hours below 45 degrees is the most quoted value, depending on variety. Some sources state that Nonpareil requires approximately 400 hours. University researchers have developed an alternative metric known as the “Dynamic Model” that uses an upper and lower limit to compensate for excessively warm daytime hours that may unwind chilling accumulated during overnight and early morning cold. Rather than hours below 45 degrees, the model identifies chilling as “chill portions.” 22 to 32 chill portions are the most common requirement for almonds. While the early weeks of winter were warm, tule fog set over the Central Valley in December and early January, shielding the sun for several weeks and holding temperatures low enough to provide ample chilling. By the start of the bloom, all major almond growing regions met or exceeded required chill thresholds. However, the winter conditions and the depth of chilling provided the second complicating factor in forecasting the crop.

Successful forecasting is less about establishing a single forecast number and more about understanding the forces shaping production. Harvested acreage, weather volatility, water availability, and economic conditions are more influential now than ever. Being a perennial crop, the health of the bloom can be impacted by events or conditions that occurred in the year prior to bloom, particularly during bud differentiation. These can include:

• Excess heat • Water stress • Poor nutritional status

Almond trees produce more flowers than are needed to set the crop. Under normal conditions, and depending on the bud set, the trees shed 40% to 80% of their buds after bloom. Let’s dive into the factors affecting the potential of the 2026 crop and consider the reasonable range of the conceivable volume. Economic Factors The difficult economic conditions of the past few years have impacted production practices. Reduced fertilizer applications and irrigation volumes have affected the productive potential of many orchards throughout the Central Valley. Some orchards were so impacted that they went unharvested or were even abandoned. Despite abandonment, some are in good enough condition to be considered “bearing” in the satellite imagery identifying California’s bearing acres. I like to say, “If it’s green and it’s standing, it’s in the bearing column.” While we know the total pounds produced in any given crop year and

ALMOND FACTS

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