Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1123864
19 have access to an additional report based on completion of the nine CASP modules." The CASP and FSA benchmarking effort is an important step in not only building confidence and understanding in California almond production practices, but also in further establishing the continuous improvement for which this industry is known. Formalizing the partnership with SAI Platform through affiliate membership has also provided new opportunities for the Almond Board to engage directly with various buyers. For instance, Ludwig and other ABC representatives have been invited to various international events to present on the experience of developing CASP and implementing a CASP-FSA reporting approach. According to SAI Platform's Crops Director Jenny Edwards, "In working together on CASP and FSA, the Almond Board of California and SAI Platform should bring real value to growers and their buyers by demonstrating alignment on sustainability best management practices and clarifying communications of sustainability activities at the farm level. SAI Platform values organizations like the Almond Board who work with local growers to find pragmatic solutions to sustainability challenges." Telling our sustainability story The importance of the FSA program to buyers in the U.S. and European markets, along with fact that FSA allows the industry's existing CASP efforts to serve as the starting point for data, makes the CASP Supply Chain Pilot program a win for early adopters. This partnership with SAI Platform is only one example of the many opportunities the almond industry is pursuing to increase buyers' awareness of CASP. The Supply Chain Pilot program is only possible due to the hard work of growers who participate in CASP. Increased grower participation in CASP will ensure the almond industry is able to continually support outreach regarding growing practices to buyers and to demonstrate the industry's continued commitment to sustainable farming. 1 Sustainable almond farming utilizes production practices that are economically viable and based upon scientific research, common sense and a respect for the environment, neighbors and employees. The result is a plentiful, healthy and safe food product. Adams (far right) reviews almond industry sustainability initiatives during a FRUCOM General Assembly meeting in Brussels on March 22, 2019. FRUCOM is the representative body of European traders in dried fruit, edible nuts and other select commodities.