Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1170186
THE ALMOND CONFERENCE 12 members to attend and donating all proceeds to California FFA. At TAC 2019, "On the Fritz" will be available for industry members and attendees from around the globe to enjoy. "It's crazy to think that what started off as an idea we thought of on the second day of class has evolved into this larger opportunity to share our special project with attendees of TAC in a very tangible – and I think, tasty – way," said Camou, who works as a grower relations representative at Famoso Nut Company, LLC. "We can't wait to hear the industry's feedback on our new almond beverage!" Conference highlights CASP 10 year anniversary All attendees are encouraged to attend the State of the Industry address, which will be held on Tuesday morning, December 10. During the address, ABC President and CEO Richard Waycott and ABC Board Chair Holly A. King will discuss the Almond Orchard 2025 Goals and the industry's journey toward the almond orchard of the future. They will also highlight the 10-year anniversary of the California Almond Sustainability Program (CASP). CASP uses grower-submitted production information to demonstrate the sustainability of our industry to buyers, regulators and consumers, and helps growers find ways to create efficiencies on their operations. Now in its 10th year, CASP represents 25% of the almond acreage in California, and that number continues to grow. Growers are encouraged to visit SustainableAlmondGrowing.org for more information on this program. FFA takes on larger role Each year, multiple California FFA chapters from across the Central Valley volunteer at TAC to provide a variety of services, including welcoming attendees and scanning attendee's badges as they enter sessions and meals. The students' experience at TAC gives them an opportunity to meet a wide array of individuals who are passionate about almonds and be exposed to the latest industry research and information. Recognizing that today's youth are tomorrow's leaders, the Almond Board is increasing its work with California FFA in a creative way: ABC is hosting an Almond Photography Contest for FFA students who have a knack for photography. Leading up to TAC, FFA students will have an opportunity to submit an image that captures the essence of the almond industry to be considered for the grand prize of $750 and two tickets to a TAC luncheon. More information about the competition is available at AlmondConference.com. TAC 2019 offers more, more, more From new food and drink options to a second exhibit hall for even greater trade show time, TAC promises to be a one-of-a-kind, "Best of Show" event for the California almond industry. "I think a reoccurring theme with this year's conference is 'more' – more optimized session structure, more food options, more time with vendors and researchers and more opportunity for continued learning and growth as an industry," said Nicolau. "Just as the California almond industry strives to produce more product to meet more demand while also being more efficient and responsible, so the Almond Board strives to constantly improve and evolve the annual conference in a way that provides more to the industry and seeks to constantly put their interests first." Visit AlmondConference.com for more information about The Almond Conference, and don't forget: Registration is open now on the website and hotel blocks open on September 10. A researcher discusses her ABC-funded project with an attendee of The Almond Conference 2018.