- Demand-building Activities in China
- Almond Industry Hosts Regulators for 2010 Environmental Stewardship Tour
- Almond Board Budgets and Programs
- Sustainably Speaking: Growers Attend Sustainability Workshops throughout Central Valley
- Government Affairs: DPR Proposes to Register Methyl Iodide
- Snacking a Major Volume Opportunity for California Almonds in Europe
July
-
7 PR & Advertising Committee 10:00AM -
8 International Committee 9:30AM -
21 International Committee 9:30AM
August
-
18 Leadership Development Committee 8:30AM -
18 Board of Directors 9:30AM
December
Government Affairs
DPR Proposes to Register Methyl Iodide
In late April, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) proposed to register methyl iodide—a soil fumigant that serves as an alternative to methyl bromide. Unlike methyl bromide, methyl iodide does not deplete the ozone layer. However, DPR does have concerns over possible health risks and has proposed restrictions tougher than those of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Examples include:
- Larger buffer zones around all applications
- A minimum half-mile buffer around schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and similar sites
- Reduced application rates and acreage that can be treated
- Application limits to protect ground water
- Designation as a restricted material requiring special training and permits for users
Despite the extra measures, a number of organizations have been lobbying to prevent its use in California. Methyl iodide is registered for use in 47 states. If it is registered for use in California, it is expected that EPA will approve fewer exemptions for methyl bromide use in California.
The comment period, which ordinarily lasts 30 days, was extended until June 29 due to heightened interest in this compound.
Learn more about air quality issues.
Traceback is the ability to track your almonds one step forward, to the huller/sheller and handler, and one step back, to the orchard. If you haven't already, establish a lot-numbering system as loads are harvested, and maintain records of lot numbers as they leave the orchard, including the harvest date. An effective traceback system can rapidly identify and isolate suspect product, minimizing the disruption of processing and marketing of your almonds. Learn more about food safety issues.
