The Almond Board of California (ABC) has announced the deadline for filing nomination petitions for two independent grower member and alternate positions on the group’s board of directors is Jan. 20, 2010.

Each candidate must be a grower and submit a petition signed by at least 15 independent growers of almonds (verified by the Almond Board) to be considered for the position.

The petition must state the position for which the candidate is nominated and be filed with the Almond Board of California, 1150 9th Street, Suite 1500, Modesto, Calif., 95354.

Additionally, one independent handler member and alternate position is available. Handlers must declare their candidacy in writing to ABC no later than Jan. 20 in order for their name to be on the ballot for the positions.

One cooperative handler member and alternate nominee will be selected through their cooperative association.

ABC is the agency established to administer the federal marketing order for almonds. The board assures industry compliance with marketing order regulations and is responsible for administering all aspects of the marketing order.

ABC also serves the almond industry in other major areas: production research, generic advertising and public relations, and accumulation, compilation, and dissemination of statistical information.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees federal marketing orders, would like to enhance the diversity of the ABC and is encouraging eligible women, minorities, and people with disabilities to consider running for a position on the ABC board. The USDA's goal is for that marketing order boards and committees reflect the diversity of the industries they serve.

For further information, contact Sue Olson at (209) 343-3224.