Prior to retiring in 2024, I conducted applied research and education programs directed towards orchard growers, pest control advisors, consultants, and other industries related to the approximately 200,000 acres of almonds, canning peaches, and other orchard crops in Stanislaus County.  I also served as a source of information for growers of other miscellaneous tree fruit species. Although Stanislaus County is one of the largest tree crop acreage areas in California, the large clientele base (2125 farms) is comprised mostly of small acreage growers, where approximately 75% of the farms are 40 acres or fewer. My research efforts include evaluation of rootstocks, varieties, orchard design and pruning systems, alternatives to pre-plant fumigation, labor reduction in peaches, tree fertility and integrated pest management.