The deadline for filing a nomination petition for open positions on the Almond Board of California is Jan. 20.

There are two independent grower-member positions and two independent grower-alternate positions open on the Board of Directors for the Almond Board of California. Each candidate must be a grower and must submit a petition signed by at least 15 independent growers of almonds (verified by the Almond Board) in order to be considered for the position. The petition must state the position for which the candidate is nominated, and must be filed with the Almond Board of California, 1150 Ninth Street, Suite 1500, Modesto, CA 95354.
Additionally, one independent handler-member position and one independent handler-alternate position are available. Handlers must declare their candidacy, in writing, to the Almond Board no later than Jan. 20, in order for their name to be placed on the ballot for these positions. 
One cooperative handler-member and alternate nominee will be selected through their respective cooperative association.
The Almond Board of California is the agency established to administer the Federal Marketing Order for almonds. The Board assures industry compliance with marketing order regulations and is responsible for administering all aspects of the marketing order. It also serves the almond industry in other major areas: production research, generic advertising and public relations, as well as accumulation, compilation and dissemination of statistical information.  
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees Federal Marketing Orders, would like to enhance the diversity of the Almond Board, and is encouraging women, minorities and people with disabilities who are eligible to consider running for a position on the Board. It is the USDA’s goal that marketing order boards and committees reflect the diversity of the industries they serve. Diversity brings about real, long-lasting change made from decisions guided by the diverse members of an organization.
For further information, call Sue Olson, associate director, Statistics and Compliance, at 343-3224.