Upcoming Storm Has Almond Growers On Edge

 A $3 billion industry could be wiped out as another storm, stronger than the one earlier this week, heads our way.  Local almond growers are spraying trees to protect the crop from crippling fungus brought on by wet weather.

« If you get behind the game, you get fungus and brown rot, » says almond grower, Bill Groen.  Blossoms would just fall to the ground, leaving almond growers out of luck and money. Friday’s storm could prove to be a double whammy for growers already behind from fierce storms a month ago. Wind-whipped weather toppled dozens of trees.

Despite the setback, buds are blooming, but nut trees need warm weather and sunshine to transform, not rain. « We’re not in charge of the weather, that’s the biggest problem. It’s always a nervous time of year for everybody, » says Groen.

Many growers bank on a successful season to survive. And bad years can ultimately affect customers. Fewer almonds to go around may mean higher prices at the supermarket. Many farmers are still spraying, and will continue to until the rain rolls in.

Source : cbs13