What the future of almonds looks like in a dry California
In 2021 alone, the 7,600 almond farmers in the state grew nearly three billion pounds of almonds, making it the state’s most valuable crop. But now, facing extreme weather events, shrinking water resources and rising costs, some farmers are leaving almonds behind, opting to put their efforts behind in-demand crops such as canning tomatoes, garlic or onions. In fact, this year’s almond harvest is expected to drop from last year’s, with drought and frost damage two of the main reasons for the dip.
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