INDUSTRY NEWS
Almond planting survey
THIS year marks 20 years since the Almond Board of Australia( ABA) first initiated the Statistics Collection Program, to ensure accurate and up-to-date industry information is available. Each year the ABA has distributed the Almond Planting Survey to capture new plantings, tree removals, changes in irrigation methods and pollination requirements. Excellent grower participation has underpinned the accuracy of our Planting Survey data. This information has benefited the Australian almond industry in planning activities, advocating in the interests of almond growers as well as accessing funds to support almond projects. This data is reported in our annual Australian Almond Insights publication, summarising planting information together with updated almond production and sales statistics. This year we have introduced some new metrics to provide a broader understanding of industry trends and insights into global market forces so we can better prepare for, and respond to, new and emerging issues. The new metrics apply to the previous financial year 2023 / 24 including: workforce numbers and demographics, water consumption, energy source, fertiliser inputs, honeybee hive requirements, and production. While planting data refers to trees planted during the 2024 calendar year. This year we have also introduced an electronic spreadsheet to collect data with separate tabs for each farm.
We trust this will make it easier for growers to review existing information and update any changes. All data collected through this program is strictly confidential. Only consolidated information is disclosed or published, with no references to individual growers or properties. Now is the time for growers to locate this email sent by the ABA in late February. All sections of the survey should be completed by March 28. Once you have reviewed your data, noting any updates or changes please return it to the ABA via email. If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this survey, contact Kimberley Burden, at the ABA on( 08) 8584 7053 or email: admin @ australianalmonds. com. au
Australian Almond R & D Forum returns
ALMOND growers will get the opportunity to hear directly from researchers and learn about new innovations at the Australian Almond Research and Development Forum on October 21 and 22. The event returns to Robinvale, a powerhouse for almond production. The location was selected because it’ s central for both growers in South Australia and New South Wales. More than 250 people attended the event when it was last held in 2023 and similar numbers are expected this year. The R & D forum will again commence with a bus tour, to showcase some of the ways the almond industry is overcoming challenges. Projects funded through Hort Innovation’ s Almond Industry Fund, including pest and disease management, variety and rootstock trials, and best management practices will be explored on day two. David Haviland from the University of California’ s Division of Ag and Natural Resources has been secured as the keynote speaker. He’ ll discuss insect pest management in California and provide input on Australia ' s approach. This will coincide with David’ s proposed Australian sabbatical, to see carpophilus beetle and engage with local scientists who are developing strategies to combat this pest. Attendees will also get the opportunity to hear from people who attend the ABA’ s study tour to Spain and Portugal in May. Participants in the 2025 Growing Almond Leaders program are also set to take the stage, making presentations on several industry issues. In coming months further details about the R & D Forum, including how to register will be provided online at australianalmonds. com. au / events. Sponsorship opportunities and trade displays will again be available and a prospectus will be available soon.
16 In A Nutshell- Autumn 2025 Vol 26 Issue 1