According to a report produced by a collaborative effort between UC Davis and UC Cooperative Extension, the fungal pathogen red leaf blotch (RLB) was first detected in California almond orchards on the border of Merced and Madera counties in late May 2024. Previously known for its impact on almonds in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, RLB’s presence in California has understandably raised alarms. In this episode we are joined by UC ANR Associate Cooperative Extension Specialist, Dr. Florent Trouillas and Almond Board of California (ABC) Senior Specialist in Pest Management, Dr. Lauren Fann. Together they explore the latest on this disease, what impacts it may have on the almond industry and what growers can look for and do about its presence in California.

“I'm actually quite surprised by how widespread the disease is already in this first year. The disease is definitely here to stay in California, which unfortunately brings another challenge for the industry here.” - Dr. Florent Trouillas

In Today’s episode:

• Meet UC ANR’s Dr. Florent Trouillas and ABC’s Dr. Lauren Fann
• Explore the pathogenesis and symptoms of Red Leaf Blotch in California almonds and what growers can look out for
• Discover the threat of the disease and what is being done to mitigate its risk now that it's here

For more information, read this article from the Almond Board of California: “A New Threat to California Almonds: Red Leaf Blotch”

The Almond Journey Podcast is brought to you by the Almond Board of California. This show explores how growers, handlers, and other stakeholders are making things work in their operations to drive the almond industry forward. Host Tim Hammerich visits with leaders throughout the Central Valley of California and beyond who are finding innovative ways to improve their operations, connect with their communities, and advance the almond industry.

ABC recognizes the diverse makeup of the California almond industry and values contributions offered by its growers, handlers, and allied industry members. However, the opinions, services and products discussed in existing and future podcast episodes are by no means an endorsement or recommendation from ABC. The Almond Journey podcast is not an appropriate venue to express opinions on national, state, local or industry politics. As a Federal Marketing Order, the Almond Board of California is prohibited from lobbying or advocating on legislative issues, as well as setting field and market prices.