Vol 08 Issue 3 - August 2008

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In A Nutshell

August 2008

In this issue:

Pollination Australia Update Almond Pollination Field Day Almond Conference 2008 Marketing Program Highlights GREMPA Study Tour

contents

Membership

ABA Membership Reminder

Pollination Australia Update

Almond Pollination Field Day

4 - 5

Australian Almond Conference

A reminder that ABA memberships are now due, with 2008/09 fees as follows: Full Membership is available to almond growers, • processors and marketers for $180. Associate Membership is available to industry service • providers and interested parties for $100. Why become a member of the ABA? ABA is the peak industry body for the Australian Almond • industry, representing and promoting the interests of almond growers, processors and marketers. As a member you have a direct say about the future of • the industry and direct access to our organisation. ABA has undertaken industry-wide consultation to • develop an Industry Strategic Plan which establishes funding priorities for the industry’s R&D and marketing programs. ABA aims to support our rapidly increasing industry by • encouraging effective communication and co-operation between industry members. ABA aims to keep members informed through a range of • activities including: presentation of the Annual Almond Industry • Conference distribution of the ABA’s quarterly newsletter • “In a Nutshell” regular field days and regional meetings • technical articles and ABA news in the “Australian • Nutgrower” Journal collection and distribution of industry statistics • access to regularly updated information via the ABA • website.

- Have You Registered?

- Featured Speaker Profiles

- Program

8 - 9

Marketing Program Highlights

Terrific Tins

Nuts For Life - Program Update

GREMPA

- Spanish & Californian Study Tour

USA 2008 Almond Crop Forecast

Feature Recipe

Calender of Events

In a Nutshell The Almond Board of Australia is the peak industry body representing the interest of almond growers, processors and marketers in Australia in matters of national importance including regulation, legislation, marketing research and development. In a Nutshell is published quarterly by the ABA in February, May, August and November to bring news to all industry contacts and members. Membership The Almond Board of Australia offers membership to growers, processors, marketers and interested parties. Annual fees are: Full Membership: $180

Almond Board of Australia and unless otherwise specified, no products and/or services are endorsed by this organisation

Editor Jo Ireland Communications Coordinator Almond Board of Australia 9 William Street, PO Box 2246 BERRI SA 5343

t +61 8 8582 2055 f +61 8 8582 3503 e jireland@australianalmonds.com.au w www.australianalmonds.com.au These projects were facilitated by HAL in partnership with the Almond Board of Australia. They were funded by the R&D levy and/or voluntary contributions from industry. The Australian Government provides matched funding for all HAL’s R&D activities.

Membership applications forms are available from ABA office or www.australianalmonds.com.au

Further information contact: Phone: +61 8 8582 2055 Email: admin@australianalmonds.com.au

Associate Membership: $100 Australian Nutgrower: $80

Advertising/Editorial The Almond Board of Australia

Edition

Advertising Deadline Material Deadline

acknowledges contributions made by private enterprise through placement of advertisements in this publication. Any advertising and/or editorial supplied to this publication does not necessarily reflect the views of the

November 2008 October 1, 2008

October 31, 2008 January 31, 2009

February 2009

January 1, 2009

May 2009

April 1, 2009 July 1, 2009

April 30, 2009 July 31, 2009

August 2009

2 In A Nutshell—August 2008

Update

by Julie Haslett, Interim Secretary

horticultural production. This model could then be used to assess economic impact of various quarantine decisions in the event of a Varroa mite incursion. Economic Impact 4. Assessment This project aims to utilise data generated in the bioeconomicmodelling project and input it into ABARE’s “Ausregion” tool, in order to quantify the total economic impact of this reduction in horticultural output. Surveillance Review 5. This project aims to undertake a comprehensive assessment of potential surveillance measures, outlining the relatedcosts,benefitsandrisksassociated with various strategies by exploring the strengths and weaknesses of the range of surveillance strategy options. Importantly, this review requires input from the broadest range of people. A key objective of this project will be co- ordinating and consolidating feedback and input from the many stakeholder groups associated with this surveillance program. Ultimately the project will result in the development of a business case for investment in a recommended Australian surveillance program. I am pleased to provide the above report, which I believe represents positive progress, both in terms of progressing urgently required project outcomes, but equally importantly with respect to strengthened collaboration, communication and awareness raising of the importance of the current issues facing Australian pollination.

DAFF/Industry Honeybee Meeting

POLLINATION R&D PROGRAM More than $400,000 has been committed by Pollination Australia member industries viaRIRDCandHAL for collective Pollination R&D in 2008/09. Five project applications are currently under consideration for Pollination R&D funding: Five Year Pollination R&D 1. Strategic Plan & Related Communication Plan Future industry investment in this program is required for continuity. Consequently it is aimed to build a business case for investment in the program over the next five years. Additional funding has been allocated for directcommunicationtorelevantIndustry Advisory Committees (IAC’s) prior to April 2009, enabling presentation of the 5 year Pollination R&D strategic plan underpinning a request for continued funding commitment. Simulation Exercise 2. This project aims to undertake an emergency response exercise, simulating a Varroa mite incursion and testing both preparedness and existing decision making processes. The project will be broken into a two-step approach. An initial workshop focussing on eradication and containment strategies, followed by a second exercise focussing on both short and long-term management, with a view to developing a National Management Plan. Bioeconomic Model 3. This project aims to develop a modelling tool and input relevant data, in order to model the spreadof Varroamite incursion and consequent impact on Australia’s

A joint Honeybee Meeting was held in Canberra on 29th August. The meeting was initially convened in response to Pollination Australia’s letter regarding continuation of the National Sentinel Hive Program. However the scope of discussion was much broader than this. Attendance at the meeting included representation from: DAFF/AQIS • Biosecurity Australia • State and Territory Agencies • CSIRO • Australian Honeybee Industry • Council (AHBIC) Pollination Australia / ABA • Rural Industries Research and • Development Corporation (RIRDC) Horticulture Australia Limited • (HAL) Animal Health Australia (AHA) • Plant Health Australia (PHA) • A suite of more than 12 collective projects were scoped at the meeting, including those currently being reviewed for Pollination R&D funding (see project summary below). The range of projects discussed spanned the biosecurity continuum: pre border, border and post border - addressing aspects of risk assessment, preparedness, response and communication. A majority of these projects specifically focussed on a potential Varroa mite incursion. However it was agreed to broaden the scope of these projects to encompass other threats: both exotic and endemic.

3 In A Nutshell—August 2008

Pollination Field Day Rijami Almonds, 18th August 2008 by Ben Brown, Industry Liaison Manager

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An individual, who historically has been immune to bee sting reactions, can at any stage, adversely react to a bee sting. It is essential that fellow workers observe the behaviour of anyone who has been stung, regardless of whether they have previously been immune to stings. Scratch the sting out, don’t grab the end and pull it out as there is a “pump” on the end of the sting which will empty its contents into the body. Ensure all vehicles have a first aid box containing an EpiPen and instructions and warnings on its use. Beekeeper to the Almond Orchard Good communications between the apiarist and the almond orchard staff is essential to a successful, long-term relationship. Preparing a beehive for almond pollination in late winter is an artificial, man-made procedure that requires careful management by an experienced apiarist. Beehive Placement Successful pollination has been achieved by placing hives in larger drops of 50-100 hives and 250-500 metres apart. Experience suggests: A significant amount of cross 1. pollination can occur in the hive and not just out in the orchard, Smaller drops of hives and drops 2. closely spaced do not encourage expansive foraging and, We have previously 3. underestimated the distance which bees will travel for resources. The maximum flight distance between hives should be no more than 250 metres. Allow for a water source for the bees. Vehicle access and room for

A Pollination field day was recently held by the ABA at Rijami Almonds. More than fifty growers, managers and apiarists were addressed by two guest presenters: Dr. Doug Somerville and Trevor Monson. Doug currently works for the NSW Department of Primary Industries. He is one of only a few bee technical specialists in Australia, and comes with over 20 years experience. Trevor has more than 40 years experience as a commercial beekeeper and spends a majority of his time co-ordinating pollination for almond plantings in north-west Victoria. The day's program covered a broad range of topics, including: OH&S of bee hives and almond • pollination the chainof events involved ingetting • a bee hive from the beekeeper to the almond orchard bee hive standards for almond • pollination bee hive inspection and assessment • • Main points emphasized by presenters during the day included: OH&S All orchards should • bee hive placement • • inner workings of a bee hive, and bee foraging behaviour

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Papers in Hand: An attendee at the field day

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Dr Doug Somerville demonstrating the inner workings of a hive

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own some form of protective clothing (e.g. a jacket with a veil) for emergency circumstances or grower/beekeeper bee hive inspections. Avoid being stung by • wearing full length, light coloured, plain clothing, scentedhair products, deodorant, etc.

I'll Bee Back: Ben Brown covered in bees

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unloading.

Pollination field day attendees take a closer look at a hive

4 In A Nutshell—August 2008

B • eehive and assessment is encouraged, whether it between the grower and beekeeper or a beehive inspector, grower and beekeeper. At least 10% of hives require inspection for a satisfactory assessment. High bee numbers is the primary criteria and this can be done without lifting the frames out of the hive and disturbing the colony. Brood is sometimes assessed, however in most cases if bee numbers are good, brood levels are also good. Stored honey in the hives is important when the bees first arrive and start their foraging. The day proved to be extremely successful and hopefully some of the information would have been implemented this season or useful in the coming seasons. Furthermore, with the good turn out, it was a great opportunity for growers to discuss all things related to almond growing, their strategies and experiences from last season’s water restrictions and the looming water restrictions ahead. Special thanks must go to Dr Doug Somerville and Trevor Monson for their time in presenting the day and the Smart family for hosting us on their property. inspection • • •

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Place hives in a “northerly” direction. Avoid low lying, runoff areas. Place in full sunlight away from shaded areas. Where possible, place bee hives in protected areas away from windy, significantly exposed areas. Mow any competing, floral resources in the orchard. Mowthe drop areas to avoidweeds interfering with bees entering and exiting the beehive. Almond Orchard Responsibilities Communicate with the beekeeper for accurate drop off and pick up times of their beehives. All spraying is to be conducted at night time, away from bee flight times. No insecticides are to be used while bee hives are present. Beehive Standards A standard hive for almond pollination at approximately 6-7 hives/hectare should consist of at least 8 frames, ¾ covered in bees. Beehives for almond pollination have traditionally been supplied as two boxes. However, a single box hive with the before mentioned standard is just as good if not better for almond pollination as the bee colony can manage its inner workings more efficiently and effectively in a smaller environment.

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Beautiful blossom: Trees in full bloom at Rijami Almonds

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Trevor Monson addresses the field day attendees

Ben Brown, Trevor Monson and Dr Doug Somerville

Busy bees: Inside one of the hives

5 In A Nutshell—August 2008

registered? Here are a few reasons why you should...

Dr Mark Goodwin Honeybee Research Leader HortResearch New Zealand

Engage in discussion and hear varied viewpoints on the • industry and its future Be exposed to valuable new contacts and learn from other • industry colleagues Hear from industry experts in their respective fields • Trade Exhibition • - Delegates will be able to explore innovative products and services, ideas and solutions in an exhibition closely integrated with the conference Golf Day • – Enjoy a memorable day of golf with fellow delegates incorporating ‘Nearest Pin’ and ‘Long Drive’ competitions in an ambrose style Welcome Reception • – Held in the Shiraz room of the Novotel Barossa Valley Resort, overlooking the beautiful Barossa Valley wine region Conference Dinner • – A great opportunity to network with industry professionals and enjoy an evening of fine food, wine and entertainment. For further information contact our Communications Coordinator – Jo Ireland at the ABA office Hon Rory McEwen Rory McEwen had a long involvement in local government before being elected as an Independent for the Seat of Mount Gambier in 1997. He was Chairman of the District Council of Mt Gambier from 1989 to 1996, and was then inaugural Chairman of the District Council of Grant, following an amalgamation in 1996. He is a Past President of the South East Local Government Association, Greater Green Triangle Regional Association and member of the Local Government State Executive. In Parliament, he has been a member of the Economic and Finance Committee and several Select Committees. SinceMay 2002, he has been a Member of the Environment, Resources and Development Committee. Rory holds numerous academic qualifications, including a Bachelor of Agricultural Science and Graduate Diplomas in Education Administration and Curriculum Development. He has held a range of management positions with TAFE and is the owner and manager of a horticultural property specialising in cherries and lemons. Minister for Agriculture, Food & Fisheries Minister for Forests Minister for Regional Development

Dr Mark Goodwin leads the honey bee research team in New Zealand. At present Mark and his team are conducting research on the varroa bee mite and its control. Their work includes breeding bees that are resistant to varroa and developing a biological control agent. Mark is also New Zealand’s expert in honey bee and artificial pollination, having conducted research on a wide range of crops. Mark's team carries out research on crops in both New Zealand and Europe. Mark has expertise in Biosecurity issues, particularly in relation to honey bee pests and diseases.

Jeff Oughton

Head of Australian Economics & Industry Intelligence, National Australia Bank

Jeff's role covers monitoring and forecasting economic and financial conditions; and assessing industry opportunities and risks for the Group and its customers in Australia, New Zealand and the UK. He is also an expert on competition and supervision of financial systems. Prior to his joining the National in 1992, Jeff spent over ten years with the Reserve Bank of Australia, working in both economic analysis and financial markets. This included over two years as the Reserve Bank Deputy Chief Representative in New York, involved in day-to-day management of Australia's US dollar reserves and oversight of Reserve Bank foreign exchange activities in that time zone. Jeff was CEO of the Australian Bankers' Association seconded from the National during 2000/2001 to conduct a strategic review of its activities. He received a Bachelor of Economics (Honours) from Newcastle University and obtained a MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management in 1986. He has lectured in economics and finance for the Securities Institute of Australia and is also a past council member of the Victorian Branch of the Economics Society of Australia.

7 In A Nutshell—August 2008

Program Wednesday, 29th October

11.00am Social Golf Day (registered participants only)

Sponsored by: Weiss McNair/Ramacher

Global Economic Outlook

Jeff Oughton, Head of NAB Economics Australia

Shirley Horn, Global Marketing Manager, Almond Board of California

Global Almond Marketing Successes

2.30pm Conference Close The Almond Board of Australia gratefully acknowledges 2008 conference sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Dinner Sponsor Sliver Sponsor Supporting Sponsors Gold Sponsor

Welcome Reception Sponsor

Exhibitors

9 In A Nutshell—August 2008

marketing highlights

Australian Almonds Website

to their clients. Educating health professionals about the health benefits of eating a handful of almonds everyday is an important part of our communications program. “Amazing Almonds” Celebrating the spectacular almond blossom that takes place in August each year will become an important part of our annual program. This year, the ABA sponsored the inaugural Mallee Almond Blossom Festival in Victoria. The event was a huge success and attracted around 500 visitors to Kyndalyn Park’s almond property located between Robinvale and Boundary Bend. Next year, we envisage continuing our support for this event, in addition to theWillunga Almond Blossom Festival in South Australia. Eventually it is aimed to schedule and support a series of events throughout August promoting our almond blossom season. Promoting Australian Almonds Another highlight for the August to October period will be the development of our Almond Industry promotional DVD. In addition to outlining key facets of Australian almonds and our industry, video footage of Australian almond orchards in blossom showcases the natural beauty of our industry. The DVD is intended for use across a wide range of audiences including Government and export contacts, new industry members and others interested in the industry. From an export perspective, an upcoming highlight of this period will be our Australian almond promotion at the SIAL Food Fair from 19th – 23rd October 2008. Held bi-annually in Paris, SIAL is one of the most important international food expos, attracting over 140,000 visitors and 5,300 exhibitors. For the first time, the ABA will also be promoting in India later this year. Australian Almonds will be promoted at IFE India 2nd – 4th December 2008 in New Delhi, followed by a joint Australian almond industry function for invited guests on the evening of 4th December.

Our Australian Almonds website www.australianalmonds.com.au is currently undergoing a major redevelopment. The new look site will encompass integrated sub- sections specifically customised for: consumers • health professionals • almond trade & exporters • media • growers and other members • of the Australian almond industry Almond Ambassadors The new and improved consumer section of the website will showcase our Almond Ambassadors: an increasing number of high profile professionals from medical, dietary, food service and sporting fields who endorse the health benefits and daily consumption of almonds. Award winning Australian chef •

Above: Concept design for new look Almond Board of Australia homepage

based in Mildura, Stefano de Pieri has recently been appointed as a new Almond Ambassador. Stefano promotes the good taste and versatility of almonds. A new collection of recipe cards based around delicious meal ideas will also feature on the website. Bianca Chatfield, member of the Australian netball team has been an avid Almond Ambassador since 2006. A flyer customised specifically around almonds and netball: “Fuelling Fitness for Netball” will be available for download from the website. This flyer, together with a range almond materials has been developed by our nutritional partners: Sports Dieticians Australia. Relationships are continuing to be developed with health professionals, leveraging the popularity of our heart-shaped almond tins (see related article). Complimentary packs of almond tins are now being sent to an increasing database of General Practitioners (GP’s), nutritionists and dietitians for distribution

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Above: Recently appointed almond ambassador Sefano de Pieri

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Above: Australian netball champ and almond ambassador Bianca Chatfied

10 In A Nutshell—August 2008

terrific tins The success of the newly created heart shaped snack tins has been overwhelming. Since their release in late 2007 the ABA has received many emails of support from members of the public and health professionals, requesting more tins to use as gifts, promotional items and even staff incentives!

"I recently attended the GP Conference Weekend in Sydney Olympic Park. I found your heart shaped almond snack tins very attractive and interesting. I feel that they may help make a healthy statement to patients, especially those combating nutritional issues."

"Iwas recentlyat theDAAconference at the Gold Coast and received some heart shaped tin nut containers. This is an excellent way of showing my clients 30g of nuts."

"Just wanted to thank you for producing the almond heart shaped tin for keeping the almonds in… what a great idea! I always carry almonds with me in my bag so it’s a very neat way of carrying them... bought one for my friend too. I also think your almonds are very fresh – well done!"

"My husband recently purchased a packet of almonds with the handy little heart tin enclosed in the packet. I am writing to advise you that this is a fantastic marketing idea. I have been filling it with almonds and keeping it in my bag as a really good healthy afternoon fix, this has stopped me on many occasions from going to the biscuit bin at work. "

by Lisa Yates Program Manager www.nutsforlife.com.au

FSANZ Health Claims The final report for P293 Nutrient Health and Related Claims draft standard was sent to the Ministerial Council ready in June 2008 for consideration. The Council has requested FSANZ review a few areas including enforcement. Although FSANZ has 3 months to respond they will be requesting an extension until the new year. Review of Core Foodgroups Submission The National Health and Medical Research Council has requested a review of what foods are core to a healthy diet. This will lead into the development of a new food model and updating the Dietary Guidelines of Australia. The Dietitians Association of Australia has been appointed to project manage the core foods review and is being assisted by researchers from Flinders University in Adelaide. Nuts for Life has provided a submission highlighting issues regarding the methodology for the project. Public consultation is scheduled for early 2009

Consumer PR Program update

The final media release for the 07/08 financial year is a “Nut Research Around the Globe” media release distributed in June and featured new research on macadamias, almonds, Brazil nuts and general information on the Mediterranean Diet found in the month before the release was sent. 107 media clips have been achieved • generating 16 million impressions based on circulation figures between Sept 2007 to June 2008 (the term of the current consumer campaign) 46% included the name Nuts for Life • 20% of media clips mentioned the • Nuts for Life website address 93% have included the handful a day • message The final evaluation report of the consumer campaign will be available shortly and Porter Novelli and Nuts for Life will be discussing plans for the 08/09 campaign in July.

Conferences 2008 Nuts for Life is planning on having a presence at the following upcoming events: Australian Medical Students • Association convention 6-13th July 2008, Melbourne – trade exhibition AIFST National Conference July 2008 • – satchel insert Natural Therapies Expo Sydney 21- • 22nd August 2008 – trade exhibition Home Economic Institute of Australia • QLD Branch State conference 23rd August 2008 – satchel insert Food Media Club Australia Awards • Night – 27th September 2008 – sponsorship and bag insert naming rights for an award Natural Therapies Expo Melbourne • 30-31st October 2008 - trade exhibition

11 In A Nutshell—August 2008

Advertorial

Rabobank Berri – a local branch with international expertise

From it’s origins in the Netherlands in 1898 when local farmers joined together to form a farmers’ credit co-operative, Rabobank has evolved to become world’s leading food and agribusiness bank. Today, Rabobank remains a co-operative with no shareholders and a strong consistent model for growth. Rabobank ranks amongst the world’s 20 largest financial institutions and now operates in more than 40 countries, with approximately 9 million clients and 60,000 employees worldwide. However, in Berri the Rabobank branch maintains a distinctively local feel. As specialists in rural finance, Rabobank appreciates the unique and cyclical nature of agriculture. For many years Rabobank has been providing high quality service and knowledge to the local agricultural industry in Berri, through its team of trained and informed branch staff. Brent Fletcher, Rural Manager, Rabobank Berri said the strength of the Rabobank success story is the bank’s emphasis on knowledge and quality client relations and service. “With Rabobank we really do live where we work, our whole philosophy is to be part of the industry, or community we are involved in,” Brent said. Complimenting the strengths within Australia’s 50 branches is Rabobank’s unique Food & Agribusiness Research and Advisory (FAR) unit. Staffed by a team of research specialists, the Australian FAR division’s focus is on producing comprehensive world class research and educational material for Rabobank clients and staff. The latest addition to the already full stable of research and information material is a soft commodities report produced by senior analyst Luke Chandler. Released monthly the report gives an indicator of global outlook and price movements as well as information about key market drivers. Brent described it as an excellent initiative to keep producers informed of any monthly market movements. “With our focus on knowledge and information we believe we have a unique value proposition for producers in Berri,” Brent said. “Australian producers are some of the best in the world, and I believe that we have some extremely innovative and progressive producers here in the Berri region. The cornerstone of their success is built on not only their experience, but also the accumulation of knowledge and research, something that Rabobank is certainly uniquely positioned to support.” Rabobank Australia is a part of the international Rabobank Group, the world’s leading specialist in food and agribusiness banking. Rabobank has more than 110 years’ experience providing customised banking and finance solutions to businesses involved in all aspects of food and agribusiness. Rabobank has a AAA credit rating and is ranked as one of the world’s safest banks by Global Finance magazine. Rabobank operates in 43 countries, servicing the needs of more than nine million clients worldwide through a network of more than 1500 offices and branches. Rabobank Australia is one of Australia’s leading rural lenders and a significant provider of business and corporate banking and financial services to the Australian food and agribusiness sector. The bank has 50 locations throughout Australia.

12 In A Nutshell—August 2008

GREMPA - Spanish & Californian Study Tour 31st March - 18th April 2008 by Ben Brown, Industry Liaison Manager and Dr Michelle Wirthensohn

beehive prices in California over the past few years has predominantly been related to supply/demand pressures, with Varroa further increasing the price. Aflatoxins are a key concern, with extreme pressure from the EU. However adoption of good management strategies are now bringing the issue under better control. Navel orange worm (NOW) continues to be a major problem and cost for all almond orchards. A high correlation of NOW damage and aflatoxin infection is reported. Actively investigate new rootstocks: particularly peach x almond hybrids. Many growers are successfully using potted almond trees with in vitro propagated peach x almond hybrid rootstocks (ie Hansen 536). The main advantage for growers using potted trees is the ability to replant at any time through the year. Successful use of pressure bombs as a tool for irrigation scheduling has been undertaken for a considerable length of time. A new R&D project is investigating the use of higher rates of nitrogen and potassium and consequently causing the critical values used for leaf analysis to be revisited.

The Australian Almond Industry has a long history of attending “GREMPA”, (the Mediterranean Research Group for Almond and Pistachio) and the “International Society of Horticultural Science” (ISHS) for Almond and Pistachios conferences. Earlier this year, Ben Brown (Almond Industry Liaison Manager) and Dr Michelle Wirthensohn (Australian Almond Breeder) travelled to Athens to attend GREMPA. Together with more than 70 delegates from countries such as Spain, France,Greece, Iran, Italy, Portugal, USA, Tunisia and Turkey, they enjoyed a program encompassing presentations of research papers and findings via scientific sessions, poster viewing and field trips. Key topics included: Cultivars, Rootstocks and Breeding • Industry, Processing, Quality Control • and Safety Flower, Pollination and Fruit Set • Orchard Management • Physiology, Biology and • Biotechnology Pests and Diseases • After attending GREMPA, Ben and Michelle visited Spain and California. The aim of this section of the trip was to: Develop relationships with • almond growers, researchers and nurserymen Obtain an update of research and • development programs, and; Review recent advances in almond • management and production.

A range of recommendations and findings were generated from the trip: Europe Continue to negotiate the successful • importation of potential peach x almond hybrid rootstocks to improve flexibility in various propagation techniques, soil types and growing conditions. Keep abreast of the latest EU • rootstock breeding program and the new rootstock/s which may be released in the future. These rootstocks will also be hybrids: (peach x almond) x plum. Evaluate the four cultivars released • from Spain’s IRTA almond breeding program. Investigate the potential of the two • recent cultivars released from UC Davis: Winters and Sweetheart. Investigate the potential of the • Burchell exclusive cultivar: Wood Colony. Commence an almond irrigation • trial, investigating the differences between two irrigation strategies: Regulated Deficit Irrigation (RDI) and Sustained Deficit Irrigation (SDI). Key Californian almond growers and research trials are producing yields of 3T/Ha to 4T/Ha. Beehive prices were approximately $159USD/hive. The rapid increase in • • California

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Below: High density almond trial in California

Above: Typical terrain of a Spanish Almond Orchard

Above: 2 year old Carmel tree with Non-Infectious Bud Failure (California)

Left: Dr Michelle Wirthensohn with a new rootstock variety - Peach x Almond Hybrid

13 In A Nutshell—August 2008

14 In A Nutshell—August 2008

2008 US Almond Forecast Announced (Modesto, Calif., June 30) -The June 30, 2008 objective almond forecast for the 2008-2009 crop year is 1.50 billion meat pounds, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service - California Field Office (NASS/CFO). This forecast is based on 660,000 bearing acres. Doug Flohr, statistician for USDA-NASS, California field office, said the forecast is up 3 percent from the May 7, 2008 subjective forecast of 1.460 billion pounds. The estimate is also up 9 percent from this year's crop to date of 1.380 billion pounds as of May 31, 2008. The official announcement was made today at the Modesto office of the Almond Board of California, which funds the forecast. The average nut set per tree is 7,452, up 1 percent from the 2007 almond crop. The Nonpareil average nut set of 7,079 represents a 0 percent change from last year's set. The average kernel weight for all varieties sampled was 1.43 grams, down 3 percent from last year.

For additional information contact the Almond Board of California at (209)549-8262 or visit www.AlmondBoard.com.

For all enquiries please contact: ANIC 2008 C/- ICMS Pty Ltd Locked Bag Q4002, QVB Post Office

SYDNEY NSW 1230 P + 61 2 9290 3366 F + 61 2 9290 2444

E anic2008@icms.com.au W www.anic2008.com.au ABN 66 007 041 732

15 In A Nutshell—August 2008

POSTPONED September 22 ANIC Conference Langham Hotel, Melbourne www.anic2008.com.au 23 Nuts for Life Contributors Meeting Langham Hotel, Melbourne www.nutsforlife.com.au 23 ANIC AGM & Board Meeting Langham Hotel, Melbourne www.nutindustry.org.au calender

October 19 - 23 SIAL, Global Food Marketplace Paris http://en.sial.fr 29 - 31 Australian Almond Industry Conference Novotel, Barossa Valley Resort Incorporating AGM & Annual Levy Payers Meeting (ALPM) www.australianalmonds.com.au 28 - 29 PHA Forum & AGM Canberra www.planthealthaustralia.com.au November 7 - 9

25 - 27 HAL Forum & AGM

Sydney Convention Centre www.horticulture.com.au December 2 - 4 IFE India 2008 Pragati Maidan Exhibition Grounds, Dehli www.ife-india.com

4 Australian Almonds Function New Delhi Golf Club

22 - 25 Fine Foods Exhibition

Melbourne Exhibition Centre www.foodaustralia.com.au

Good Food & Wine Show Brisbane Exhibition Centre www.goodfoodshow.com.au

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