[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 30 (Thursday, February 13, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E127-E128]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 16, 2025, AS NATIONAL ALMOND DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. ADAM GRAY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 13, 2025

  Mr. GRAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, joined by my colleagues, to 
recognize February 16, 2025, as National Almond Day.
  This day serves as an opportunity to celebrate the incredible 
contributions made by almond farmers, processors, workers, and all 
those whose dedication sustains this vital industry. National Almond 
Day shines a light on the remarkable achievements and innovations that 
have made the almond industry a cornerstone of our agricultural economy 
and a source of pride for our nation.
  Almonds, often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, offer an array of 
health benefits. They are a naturally gluten-free, shelf-stable 
protein, packed with essential nutrients like healthy fats, fiber, 
vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, and niacin. Almonds are 
known to promote heart health, support healthy cholesterol and blood 
sugar levels, and contribute to radiant skin and overall well-being. 
Few foods can claim such a combination of health benefits and 
versatility.
  Beyond their nutrition, almonds are an essential ingredient in 
countless recipes and culinary traditions. Whether enjoyed as a 
wholesome snack or incorporated into baking and cooking, almonds have 
become a staple in households nationwide, adding flavor, texture, and 
nourishment to our meals.

[[Page E128]]

  The almond industry also exemplifies environmental stewardship. 
Almond orchards play a significant role in carbon sequestration, 
storing an impressive 30 million metric tons of carbon annually. Over 
the past three decades, almond farmers have made tremendous strides in 
water conservation, reducing water usage by nearly 50 percent through 
advanced practices and precision irrigation technology. Furthermore, 
the industry is committed to sustainability, utilizing every part of 
the almond--from the nut to the shell and hull--in a zero-waste 
approach that benefits the environment and strengthens the industry's 
resilience.
  California, my home state, is the proud heart of this industry. Home 
to 7,600 almond farms, most of which are family-owned and operated by 
multi-generational farmers, California leads the world in almond 
production. These dedicated farmers embody the values of hard work, 
innovation, and community, preserving farmland and fostering 
sustainable practices for future generations.
  The almond industry's economic impact is profound. It supports 
110,000 jobs in California and contributes $9.2 billion annually to the 
state's economy. California's almond farmers supply 100 percent of the 
almonds in the United States and 80 percent of the world's almond 
supply, cementing our role as a global leader in almond production. 
That is why I proudly carried state legislation in 2017 to name almonds 
as California's official state nut.
  On this National Almond Day, we honor the hardworking men and women 
whose efforts ensure that almonds remain a nutritious and sustainable 
staple on tables around the world. Their innovation and dedication 
inspire us all and remind us of the vital connection between 
agriculture and our shared prosperity.
  Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues in the United States House of 
Representatives to join me in celebrating National Almond Day and in 
recognizing the profound contributions of almond farmers and all those 
who make this industry a shining example of American ingenuity and 
resilience.
  May National Almond Day continue to inspire appreciation for the many 
ways the almond industry enriches our lives and strengthens our 
communities.

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