Almond shipments will reach 3 billion pounds, a 10% increase from 2024’s crop, according to the 2025 USDA-NASS California Almond Objective Measurement Report estimate.
This objective estimate is 7% higher than the USDA-NASS’s May subjective forecast and surpasses the 2024 harvest of 2.73 billion pounds. The 2024 crop was 2.5% below the previous year’s objective estimate, reflecting the difficulty of precise forecasting amid fluctuating weather and economic conditions.
“The Objective Measurement reflects the hard work by California almond growers during uncertain times,” said Almond Board of California CEO Clarice Turner. “While shipping has remained consistently strong, we know uncertainty remains surrounding future trade policies. We continue to engage with trade partners and stakeholders to encourage constructive solutions that support fair and stable trade so California almonds can continue to be enjoyed by consumers around the world.”
Weather during the bloom period was variable, with storms bringing rain, wind, and hail that hindered bee activity and blossom development. Conditions improved in early March with warm temperatures accelerating crop progress.
Mild spring temperatures and timely rainfall supported nut growth and reduced heat stress in orchards, with reports indicating lower-than-normal pest and disease pressure. Harvest is expected to start on schedule.
The USDA-NASS forecasted yield per acre for 2025 is 2,160 pounds, up from 1,980 pounds in 2024. The average nut set per tree is projected at 4,364 nuts, an increase of 7% from last year, with Nonpareil trees averaging 4,526 nuts. This is up 9% year-on-year.
Kernel weight averaged 1.60 grams across sampled varieties, representing a 0.6% decrease from 2024. The Nonpareil variety specifically averaged 1.60 grams, down 2% from the previous year.
The 2025 report is based on actual almond counts using a statistically rigorous methodology. Sampling was conducted from May 24 to June 28, covering 1,892 trees in 946 orchards. USDA-NASS produces the Objective Report, Subjective Forecast, and Nursery Survey annually to support industry decision-making.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.