BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Kern County residents are no strangers to dusty farmland, but the increase in allergy symptoms during the fall is partially due to the region’s almond harvest.
According to the 2024 agriculture crop report, almonds are the 4th most produced commodity in Kern County.
Watch ‘After Sunrise’ on KGET+; Click to learn how to get KGET+ on your smart TV devices
“The almond industry is very intense and one of the most important parts of California agriculture,” said Casey Bloomquist with Famoso Nut Company.
Growers around Kern County harvest from June all the way up until October, and the process is no easy feat. Harvesting almonds is done with heavy machinery that shakes the almonds off the tree to dry on the ground. After three to four days, the nuts are swept into a row before the harvester picks them up…