Quality Management in California Almonds

This course delves into the challenges and best practices for managing pests and maintaining crop quality in almond orchards, with a focus on economic impacts and sustainability. The course highlights the biology and management of naval orange worm (NOW), economic implications of reject levels, the role of sanitation, and the interplay between pest control and orchard practices.

After completing this course, learners will be able to:

• Understand Pest Biology and Management: Learn about the biology of naval orange worm (NOW) and other pests, and the critical role of orchard sanitation in controlling infestations.
• Analyze Economic Impacts of Crop Quality: Explore how reject levels, pest damage, and moisture content affect almond pricing and revenue, emphasizing the importance of quality control.
• Identify and Manage Stockpile and Orchard Pests: Gain insights into managing pests like carpophilus beetles and addressing specific issues such as staining and kernel damage.
• Implement Sustainable Orchard Practices: Discover strategies like cover crops, multiple split sprays, and mating disruption to enhance pollination, reduce pest populations, and adapt to climate challenges.
• Integrate Beekeeping and Recycling Practices: Learn how to manage varroa mite populations, support bees with cover crops, and adopt whole orchard recycling for sustainability and grant opportunities.