November/December 2024 - 20

ALMONDS
" We are a turnkey operation at Baugher Ranch and
we carry a full offering of almond products, " Gates
said. " We handle significant quantities annually,
ensuring a steady supply for our partners. We offer
primarily organic almonds, but also conventional. New
this year to Baugher is our service offering of steam
pasteurization (toll processing) for our partners. "
Postharvest, the company takes possession of the
inventory, processes the almonds, keeps everything in
its three cold storages and ships all onsite.
Keeping everything under one roof which provides
control of all processes, inventory, quality and warehousing
until product is shipped directly to our customers maintains
almond integrity, Baugher-Carrow said.
Automation and technology
From day one, nuts were handsorted, but four years
ago, advancements in technology made it the right time
to invest in newer automated processes.
Baugher Ranch recently completed a cutting-edge
production facility that spans 30,000 square feet and is
designed for peak automation and efficiency. This stateof-the-art
facility, commissioned in 2024, propels the
company's capability to deliver almonds with quality
and excellence standards.
" We utilize automation and technology to improve
efficiency, consistency and quality in almond
processing, " Baugher-Carrow said. " Advancements
such as state-of-the-art laser sorters, pasteurizing
and automatic packing lines have made significant
differences in our operations. "
The latest in sorting technology features advanced
automated and pre-sizer sorting lines, equipped with
state-of-the-art camera and laser technologies that
enable precise identification and removal of foreign
materials and product defects.
Real-time data, analytics and AI technology work
seamlessly to enhance operational efficiency, allowing
for rapid adjustments and improvements throughout
the sorting and packing process.
The ranch boasts an automated and fully integrated
packing line that showcases an industry-leading bag-inbox
system, accommodating various packaging options,
including 25- and 50-pounds and bulk super sacks.
Precision weight control guarantee accuracy at every
stage of packaging, while vacuum-sealed and modified
atmosphere case capabilities ensure product freshness and
longevity. Custom label printing and robotic palletizing
streamline operations further, making fulfillment smoother
and more tailored to customer needs.
Baugher Ranch also prioritizes product preservation
with onsite cold-storage facilities, encompassing 28,000
square feet of climate-controlled space maintained
at temperatures below 40° F. This level of vigilance
complements effective insect control measures,
safeguarding the integrity of every package that leaves
the facility.
20 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024
Sustainable mindset
Sustainability is also a core value at Baugher
Ranch, with efforts focused on eco-friendly
farming practices, water conservation and
reducing carbon footprint.
For instance, the company's resilient
farming methods - conservation tillage,
agroecology and the cultivation of droughtresistant
crops - help it address and adapt to
climate-related challenges.
Organic agriculture plays a vital role
in climate change mitigation by reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing
carbon sequestration. Plus, investment in
solar technology illustrates this commitment,
with solar panels generating 396,395
kilowatt-hour of clean energy each year,
providing a 50% energy offset. This significant
output not only powers the entire facility,
but also highlights the company's role as
environmental stewards.
" These efforts are crucial for environmental
stewardship and long-term viability, " BaugherCarrow
said. " We've always farmed organic,
November/December 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of November/December 2024
