Helping Growers and Handlers Tackle Sustainability: Insights from California Walnuts’ Virtual Learning Series
Measure to Improve supports credible, walnut industry–focused virtual education
Walnut growers are facing more pressure than ever to adopt sustainable practices, but finding clear, trusted information isn’t always easy. That’s why the California Walnut Board and Commission launched a series of Virtual Sessions focused on helping growers understand the latest strategies, tools, and research that can be applied in real-world orchard management.
Each session in the series brings in subject matter experts to break down complex sustainability topics into practical, grower-friendly content. Sessions are live with Q&A, and follow-up materials such as recordings, summaries, and slides ensure that the information is accessible to everyone in the industry.
What the Series Covers
The first three sessions focused on:
➤ Soil Health (May 14, 2025)
Experts explored cover cropping, nutrient cycling, and how building healthy soil biology supports long-term orchard productivity.
Speakers: Tom Johnson (Project Apis m.) and Deac Jones (Andaman Ag.)
➤ Water Management (June 25, 2025)
This session broke down SGMA and water-use efficiency. On-farm practices and state-level policy guidance came together to help growers navigate water risks.
Speakers: Paul Gosselin (California Department of Water Resources), Jocelyn Anderson (Anderson Orchards), Dr. Ken Shackel (UC Davis)
➤ GHG Emissions & Carbon (July 23, 2025)
Focused on agrivoltaics and biochar, this session helped growers understand how solar energy and carbon-based soil amendments can reduce emissions and improve soil health.
Speakers: Catie Field & Tom Stein (American Farmland Trust), Mayo Ryan (Sitos Group)
MTI’s Role Behind the Scenes
Measure to Improve is proud to support the California Walnut Board and Commission in the planning, facilitation, and follow-up of each session. From coordination to post-event blogs and resource sharing, MTI ensures these sessions are not only educational but actionable.
“The Walnut Commission’s commitment to education sets an example for the entire industry. These sessions are not only timely, but they’re also grounded in science and focused on real grower success.”
– Nikki Cossio, CEO, Measure to Improve
“Sustainability can feel overwhelming, but when we break it down and make it practical, growers are eager to engage. These virtual sessions are just one way we’re helping our industry move forward, together.”
– Billy Ng, Vice President, Industry & Government Affairs, California Walnut Board and Commission
What’s Next?
Two more sessions are planned for 2025:
August 13, 2025 – Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
September 3, 2025 – State of the Walnut Industry with a Sustainability Lens
To attend an upcoming session, you can find more information and how to register at walnuts.org/events.
Recordings, summaries, and slides for all past sessions are available. If you missed a session or want to review the materials, contact Billy Ng of the California Walnut Board and Commission at bng@walnuts.org.
Why This Matters
These sessions show how sustainability education can be made accessible, cost-effective, and grower-ready. As expectations rise for environmental transparency and performance, the walnut industry is taking real steps to ensure no grower is left behind.