By John Wood, Certis Biologicals Regional Manager, CA South Central Valley
We all know that the work out in California tree nut orchards never ends, but dormancy does offer a rest from tending to our trees daily. This time of rest for our trees often allows us the chance to focus on something else that never ends—the practice of running our businesses.
In 2020, a great many things have changed for us, and how we engage in business interactions has seen a big shift. Before this year, we all looked forward to attending the trade shows and conferences that keep us updated with valuable agronomic and industry information, as well as a chance to visit with agriculture folks just like us. We attended regular meetings for CAPCA, the Almond Board of California and for our county California Farm Bureau Federation. We shook hands and talked about what was going on with us, our families and what was happening our farms.
While we haven’t been able to attend as many in-person events this year, the good news is that our world is more connected than ever before. We just have to find new
and different ways to get social.
Here are some of the tools that I’ve been using more and more this year:
Social Media
Almond Board of California
We value this trade organization for a variety of reasons, but following them on social media allows you instant access to the wealth of resources that they offer. On Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and even Pinterest the almond experts highlight the webinars available for members and non-members, they share industry information, give you the chance to enter some pretty fun contests and get weekly marketing tips during #MarketingMonday.
California Department of Pesticide Regulation
We all know that labels and regulation for the inputs we use are important, so staying up-to-date with CDPR is critical. Follow that agency on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube for information about their webinar and training opportunities, as well as helpful tips for your IPM program. They are also a great resource for helping to stay safe during COVID-19.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
Tapping the expertise of the researchers at UC is easier than ever when you follow them on their various social media platforms. The Fruit & Nut Research and Information Center is active on Facebook and Twitter while the Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program can be found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
Podcasts
Growing the Valley
Once a week, I like to check in with hosts Phoebe Gorden and Luke Milliron, Orchard System Advisors from the University of California, as they share useful information, interviews and updates for growers and agriculturists in the Central Valley.
Almond Essentials
New in 2020 is the Almond Essential podcast series from the California Almond Board. Their three current episodes are a mix of information about growing practices and consumer habits. They are off to a great start, so I am excited to see what they share next.
These are just a few social highlights that I am finding useful this year, but I know that there is an infinite amount of knowledge out there for the taking. Right now, it’s easier than ever with smartphones and iPads already integral parts of our daily routines.
While it’s easier than ever to stay informed, it’s also more important than ever. What sites, blogs, podcasts and social media influencers do you rely on to keep you at the top of the game? I’d love it if you’d share them with me through email at asktheexpert@certisbio.com.
This series is part of a partnership with Tree Nut Farm Press. You can read the original here.
