College - Author 1
College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
Department - Author 1
BioResource and Agricultural Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Agricultural Systems Management
Date
6-2010
Primary Advisor
Richard Cavaletto
Abstract/Summary
To develop the most efficient method to plant a 20 acre block almonds. Taking into account all matters and deciding how to earn the most profit. The project includes: removal of old almond field, preparation of field, planting the correct varieties of trees that meet the requirements, decide and install a correct irrigation system, how to manage the field, harvest, pruning, and more. The result will be how much it costs to plant a field of 20 acres, how to correctly mange it, and how long until a profit may be seen. It will take into account current prices and what the future holds. The first phase of the senior project is to take into account the location of the 20 acre block, and define the soil type, climate, and other factors that affect almond productivity. Compare the results to other samples to find what best fits in the area of development. The second phase will consist of removing the old orchard and the correct way to prepare a field. This will include cost, and different methods of field preparation change the production outcome on time and cost. The third phase will be to find the correct trees for the climate and pollination, also deciding what nursery can best suit the needs of the field. The fourth phase will be planting the field and correctly managing it to see a profit in the future. All will end with an evaluation of the best methods to earn the most profit in shortest amount of time. The results of this project concluded: a drip irrigation system would be installed, the ground would be fumigated, tree varieties would be Nonpareil (50%) Carmel (25%) and Butte (25%), rootstocks variety is Nemaguard, with a planting and spacing of 17 feet by 21 feet to have 122 trees per acre. The following report consists of how these choices were found and the cost indicated throughout the process.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/braesp/16