Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1349956
What industry accomplishment are you most proud of? Lisa: I am most proud of the industry's adoption of the pasteurization program, which is a proactive approach that protects the almond industry by keeping our product safe and healthy. Bill: I take pride in the unity felt among all the Almond Board of California's Board of Directors, regardless of association. We have all realized that we are in this challenge together to build demand and improve the economics for all sectors of the industry, especially for the growers. We as directors may disagree on various levels, but in the end we come together to wholeheartedly support the group's final decisions. These decisions have led to the many vibrant programs we now pursue at the Almond Board, including the nutrition research program, which has rightfully granted California almonds with a globally recognized "health halo," and the pasteurization program. Other significant programs and outputs include the California Almond Sustainability Program (CASP), which helps growers improve their practices and supports communication of the industry's responsible farming efforts to consumers; the Global Market Development program, which continues to build demand ahead of production and this year managed the largest global marketing budget in Almond Board history; and the Reputation Management program, which is tasked with telling consumers worldwide about the California almond story – how almonds are responsibly grown and processed – in addition to understanding and addressing consumer perceptions regarding the industry's water use, practices to protect pollinators, and more. What advice would you give someone starting off in the almond industry? Lisa: Whether starting as a grower or someone invested in the industry otherwise, learn as much as you can about the industry, off the farm. Learn how we grew to the current crop size we are harvesting today, as well as how the crop is processed and marketed. It's all valuable knowledge. Bill: Get involved in as many Almond Board programs and activities as possible. Spend time with as many growers as possible across the state. Apply to ABC's Almond Leadership Program and attend ABC committee meetings, especially the Global Market Development committee meetings, to learn from the many professionals at ABC about how their programs position the industry to increase demand, remain profitable and continue advancing both in the near- and far-term. What's your favorite way to eat almonds? Lisa: Honestly, fresh off the branch while walking through the orchard is my favorite. Roasted and salted is a close second. Bill: Raw, unless they are coated in dark chocolate! ABC Board of Directors 2021/2022 Election The Almond Board of California Board of Directors is made up of a diverse group of almond professionals who guide ABC in their efforts to advance almonds throughout the world, maximize the impact of California almonds and embrace innovation and research. Each year, USDA oversees and ABC facilitates the Board of Directors election, a process stretching from February to August. This year, there are five open member positions on the Board: two independent grower positions, two independent handler positions and one cooperative grower position (only independent positions are part of the general election, as the cooperative selects its own representatives). Along with the five open member positions, there are five open alternate positions – a total of ten open seats! 2020-2021 BOARD MEMBERS Paul Ewing Todd Meyer Holly A. King George Goshgarian Jr. Mel Machado Brian Wahlbrink Vice Chair Darren Rigg Alexi Rodriguez Kent Stenderup Chair Bill Morecraft Jr. Join ABC's Board of Directors If you or a colleague are interested in running for a Board of Directors seat contact Bunnie Ibrahim, ABC's senior analyst in Government Affairs, at (209) 343-3228. Almond Board of California 14