Managing Stockpiles of California Almonds

Whenever it is necessary to stockpile almonds as they await processing, steps must be taken to protect against contamination from vertebrate pests, insects, and bacteria. Moisture is another source of contamination, both through water drainage or runoff that transports harmful bacteria or other contaminants into the stockpile, and by increasing the potential for aflatoxin growth.

To protect stockpiled almonds:

• Cover stockpiles with tarps or other effective cover material
• Monitor for evidence of pests and fumigate as necessary
• Create drainage channels to prevent water from rain or equipment-washing areas from reaching stockpiles
• Maintain storage area to prevent contamination from trash, sanitary facilities, rodents, dust, and other potential sources of contamination
• Follow stockpile management guidelines to protect against aflatoxin buildup

External Links:

Stockpile Management in Almonds