Speak Up

Dear Industry Members,

I am hearing from growers worried about California Air Resources Board plans to enact new air quality rules for farm equipment motors by the end of the year that will affect almond growers of all sizes throughout the state.

The new rule will apply to self-propelled off-road agricultural equipment with motors greater than 25 hp, including tractors, harvesters, ATVs, etc. Like previous engine rules, the tractor rule will likely require the replacement of motors over time, with higher polluting low-tier engines targeted first, until all engines have been retrofitted and/or replaced with low-emissions, higher tier motors.

All growers currently have the opportunity to be involved in the development of the rule by participating in the ag equipment survey. Data from these surveys is critical if ag is to have input into the process and help shape a more nuanced rule. It will also help to understand the true costs of any proposed rule.

You can complete the confidential survey at the Almond Board Web site. The deadline for submitting the surveys has been extended to Feb. 15.

This is your chance to influence the decisions that are being made as the rule is developed over the course of this year. Don’t let it pass.

Sincerely,

Dave Baker, Chairman
Environmental Committee
Almond Board of California

For more information on air quality issues, visit almondboard.com/airquality.