PRE-CONFERENCE TOUR

Let’s Explore Together!

The Pre-Conference Tour is a day packed with fun and learning before the main event kicks off! Connect with fellow attendees in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

We visit local farms and research centers, diving into their daily operations and discovering their sustainable initiatives with biological products. It’s a fantastic way to explore, engage, and get energized for the conference ahead!

Tour Co-Leaders:

Dr. Dave Goorahoo
Professor of Vegetable Crops Production, Plant Science Department
Soil Scientist, Center for Irrigation Technology (CIT)
California State University, Fresno

Robert Mebane Willmott
Orchard and Field Crop Manager
California State University, Fresno

Behind-the-Scenes

Explore behind-the-scenes operations and sustainable practices, providing a fresh perspective that’s you can’t get in a conference setting.

Learn and Earn CEUs

You’ll get hands-on experiences and insights from local farms and research centers, making learning dynamic and memorable. Plus, you’ll be able to earn CEUs!

Relaxed Atmosphere

Enjoy beautiful local landscapes in a relaxed atmosphere making it more comfortable for peers to learn and collaborate with one another.

Pre-Conference Tour Stops

Tour Stop #1: KARE Center – Innovations in Agricultural Research

Since its official dedication in 1965, the Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension has achieved international acclaim for leadership in the development of new fruit, nut, and grape varieties, innovative cultural and irrigation practices, pest and disease management techniques, and postharvest biology. In addition, KARE plays a leadership role in maintaining the quality of California’s rural environment, with programs in air and water quality, and mosquito management. A highlight of this stop will be a demonstration and discussion from KARE’s lab on their sterile insect release program for controlling navel orangeworm, a critical pest in nut crops, showcasing a cutting-edge approach to integrated pest management. Learn more.

Tour Stop #2: Wylie Farms – Regenerative Pistachio and Citrus Ranch

At Wylie Farms, a 1,000-acre pistachio and citrus operation, attendees will see regenerative agriculture strategies in action. Ranch Manager Justin Wylie will guide participants through practices such as biological product application, carbon acid systems, automated irrigation, and in-house fertilizer brewing. In addition to pistachios, the farm produces citrus varieties including Page and Murcott mandarins and Lane Late navels. This stop highlights sustainable techniques like year-round ground cover, reducing chemical inputs, and improving water efficiency to enhance soil health and build climate resilience. Learn more.

Tour Stop #3: DORVAL Vineyards – Sustainable Viticulture in California

Specializing in Bordeaux style wines, DORVAL Vineyards covers over 200 acres of rugged terrain in the San Joaquin Valley and Madera, CA foothills. The gusty Mono Winds provide natural airflow, reducing the need for mildew and pest control, while the vineyard’s strategic layout maximizes beneficial sunlight exposure. Through regenerative farming and drought-conscious irrigation practices, DORVAL integrates sustainable approaches that respond to California’s unique climate challenges. Attendees will learn from the vintner and owner about managing diverse soil profiles and implementing practices that contribute to vine health and resilience. Learn more.