Fourth-generation farmer James Chinchiolo grows primarily cherries and walnuts in Linden, California. He has two blocks that he’s looking to re-plant and he is considering planting almonds. In this episode, Chinciolo walks us through his thought process for how he’s approaching this decision and shares his framework for determining the best tree crop he should plant next.

“This is kind of like my framework: consumer demand, talk to the salespeople directly, look at the regulatory environment, and then think about my capital expenditure going into them.” - James Chinciolo

In Today’s episode:

• Meet fourth-generation Linden farmer James Chinchiolo who grows primarily cherries and walnuts.
• Explore the thought process Chinchiolo is using to evaluate whether almonds will be the next crop he plants or not
• Understand the many factors he must consider including water access, labor costs, market trends, regulatory policy, consumer demand and capital framework

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.