Yes, it's late Fall and our thoughts turn to what winter may have in store for us. Quoting from a recent article in WesternFarmPress, "Forecasters are confident that weak El Nino atmospheric conditions will set in as winter progresses".

This is rich!

"While El Nino conditions are known for producing wet, warm storms from the south, state and National Weather Service forecasters say there's an equal chance of below-normal, normal, or above normal precipitation in California this winter."

Now, doesn't that boost your confidence! (How can I get a job like that?)

Almond Farmers recognize the nuisance  of dust during harvest. A major new initiative supported by the Almond Board of California is to find methods of harvest that reduce the amount of dust. Here is an excellent article by Board member Brian Wahlbrink describing our efforts.

Working to reduce Dust at Harvest - Modesto Bee Article

Dry and Green Nuts at time of shake

This is my first post in a very long time. I will try to maintain a regular posting as in the distant past. I'm sure I've disappointed my ones (not tens, not hundreds, but ones) of followers but take heart, I am back.

A big issue this year has been the very long time it has taken for the crop to mature. This is widely attributed to the very prolonged bloom we had in Feb/March.  The early pollenated blossoms began development with a three week head start on the latter blossoms.