The Almond Alliance of California held its 37th annual convention in Monterey during the first week of May. Throughout the convention, Almond Alliance leadership encouraged industry members to be engaged, informed and proactive within their local ag communities and beyond. Board Chair Brad Craven and President Elaine Trevino also addressed the Almond Alliance’s ongoing advocacy efforts in advancing the California almond industry.
The convention included several educational sessions addressing biomass, sustainability, food safety, labor law, tax reform, water availability and advocacy.
Dave Phippen (right) received the Almond Alliance’s Member of the Year award at the 37th annual convention.
The Advocacy Panel included Assemblywoman Anna Caballero (D-Salinas), Tricia Geringer of the Ag Council of California and Dennis Albiani of California Advocates. Assemblywoman Caballero shared information about AB 2166, or the California Farm Bill, which streamlines conflicting California regulations, promotes adoption of agriculture technology and develops workforce training for technological opportunities.
Rachel Spiegel of the law firm Faegre Baker Daniels provided attendees with an overview of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), advising industry members on how to comply, keep thorough records, train employees and create a culture of food safety within their operation.
Ellen Hanak of the PPIC Water Policy Center provided insights into the complex water issues in California, noting that the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) will have a large impact on California water.
During the conference banquet dinner, Dave Phippen of Travaille & Phippen was honored as the Almond Alliance’s Member of the Year for his leadership, advocacy and overall commitment to serving the California almond industry. More than $4,300 was raised for the California Future Farmers of America during the dinner.
