New Technology, New Opportunities, New Varieties: UC, Almond Board Sign Agreement

The pact calls for establishing demonstration plots at UC Merced's Experimental Smart Farm, where researchers will delve into best practices in irrigation automation, regenerative agriculture and new almond varieties and rootstocks. The farm, established in 2022 south of campus, is a 40-acre research facility dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation, sustainability and education.

"This initiative is designed to accelerate the adoption of sustainable farming practices, improve water and soil management, and support weather adaptation strategies for California's almond growers," said Sebastian Saa, Almond Board associate director of agricultural research.

The agreement also aims at developing the next generation of the agricultural workforce. The Almond Board will provide three scholarships for UC Merced students to attend the Almond Conference in Sacramento in December, where they will have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders.

"In many ways, UC Merced's advancements in agricultural technology have been happening for several years now," said Joshua Viers, associate vice chancellor of interdisciplinary research. "We're very excited that our students are going to be exposed to these new ideas and be able to work on the farm and work with the Almond Board in this new capacity."

UC Merced, located in the heart of the region that produces 80 percent of the world's supply of almonds, is a natural fit for this kind of effort.

"All of us working together makes us stronger," said Glenda Humiston, vice president of UC Agriculture and Natural Resources. "We each bring different strengths to the table."

Farmers also will benefit from the initiative, which calls for accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, supporting growers in meeting weather and resource challenges, and maintaining California's leadership in almond production. Workshops and training programs will be offered to growers looking to adopt sustainable practices and emerging innovations.

"We believe that by investing in students, supporting research and working together across institutions, we can create lasting impact," Lewis said, "not just for our industry, but for the Central Valley and all of California."