The University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) hosted Statewide Pistachio Day on January 21, 2026. The event attracted over 500 attendees, including growers, PCAs, crop managers, and members of allied industries. Attendees were either growing or influencing production of pistachios throughout California’s Central Valley and Arizona. International interest was also evidenced by attendees from Australia and Chile. This year’s event was organized by Dr. Gurreet Brar, Assistant Professor of Pomology at California State University, Fresno, illustrating the strong partnership between ANR and Fresno State. Some growers may even be acquainted with Dr. Brar from his prior service as a UCCE Farm Advisor in Fresno County.
The morning agenda focused on a market outlook as well as horticultural topics ranging from pollination biology to tree training systems and carbohydrate dynamics. Dr. Phoebe Gordon, UCCE Madera County Farm Advisor discussed her research on internal kernel discoloration and Dr. Mae Culumber discussed her work on new tree training systems. Other presenters included Dr. Elizabeth Fichtner, UCCE Tulare County, and Drs. Giuia, Marino, Georgia Drakakaki, and Louise Ferguson, all of UC Davis. Additionally, Stephen Vasquez the Executive Director of the Administrative Committee for Pistachios provided a comprehensive industry outlook. The afternoon session was focused on pest management and included talks by USDA and UC scientists. Topics covered included insect, disease, and weed management as well as an update on roof rat management.
The 33 industry sponsors were integral to the meeting’s success. Additionally, the program logistics were managed by UC ANR’s Program Support Unit. The UC ANR Pistachio Workgroup is grateful to Jennifer Zimmerman for her organization of the event, and for Maya Maniar for her leadership with the Program Support Unit.