Over ninety-five percent of voting almond growers voted to continue the federal marketing order for the next five years. These voters represent over 93% of almond volume.
The vote was held Dec. 4 through Dec. 20, 2024, and occurs every five years as per the USDA’s continuance referendum. At least two-thirds of the voting growers or two-thirds of the represented crop most vote in favor in order to keep the marketing order in effect. In order to participate in this vote, growers must have produced California almonds between Aug. 1, 2023, and July 31, 2024.
“It’s a no-brainer,” said grower Christine Gemperle about her vote to keep the marketing order. “The work they have done, are doing, and are planning for the future is indespensible for the health and success of the industry.”
As a member of the board of directors, Gemperle is one of more than 200 members who serve on the board, various committees, and workgroups.
Almonds are California’s top crop by acreage and agricultural export, and the fifth crop by value. Almonds are also the No. 1 specialty crop in the U.S.
Established in 1950 and funded by grower assessment dollars, the marketing order continues to drive global demand with successful domestic and international marketing, while also supporting key initiatives in production and nutrition research, food safety and quality, and environmental stewardship. The successful vote demonstrates the industry’s continued confidence in the Almond Board.
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