Jim Jasper was recognized with the 2015 Almond Achievement Award for his lifetime of work on behalf of the California Almond industry at the Almond Conference Gala Dinner, held Dec. 10 in Sacramento.
Jasper is deeply rooted in agriculture. In 1948, a time when almond production was relatively unheard of in California, his father recognized the potential of California Almonds as a West Side crop. Since then, Stewart & Jasper gradually expanded and has become an integrated operation involving thousands of producing acres as well as hulling, shelling and processing facilities, and markets almonds through both wholesale and retail channels.
Through it all, Jasper has made service to the industry a priority, dedicating more than 15 years to the efforts and vision for the industry. He has been very active with Almond Board of California (ABC), serving on multiple committees and task forces as follows:
- Environmental Committee
- Rule Task Force
- Established Markets Subcommittee
- Information and Research Committee
- Aflatoxin and Control Task Force
- Quality Control/Food Quality and Safety Committee
- Public Relations and Advertising Committee
In addition, Jasper has been committed to sharing the industry’s story as a spokesperson and a host, giving countless interviews and tours. He’s been a gracious host to multiple international and high-level guests, offering his orchard and facility for tours by North America health professionals and Chinese media groups. He never turns down an interview request, eagerly sharing his expertise and knowledge and correcting misinformation in the media.
“Jim and his family have been phenomenal ambassadors for the California Almond industry, hosting numerous groups of health professionals, media and other stakeholders through the years,” said Molly Spence, regional director of North America, Almond Board of California.
“Jim helps them understand the industry in his own authoritative and kindly way, and we’ve been so grateful to him for not only his valuable time, but also for his special touch.”
Every year since 2011, the Almond Achievement Award has honored an industry or allied industry member who has added value to the California Almond industry through long-term service, contributions or innovations.
Past Almond Achievement Award recipients include Ned Ryan, Martin Pohl, Joe MacIlvaine and Dave Baker. Nominations for the Almond Achievement Award are accepted between August and October every year.
