The California Walnut Commission (CWC) voiced its support for the USDA’s intent to purchase $30 million of California walnuts through Section 32 authority.
The announcement, made Aug. 24 by USDA, is part of Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935, which authorizes USDA to purchase agricultural commodities for domestic nutritional assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program, and for food banks and soup kitchens.
Combined with USDA’s $15 million walnut purchase announced earlier this year, the latest announcement brings total USDA Section 32 purchases of California walnuts in 2026 to $45 million.
“We appreciate USDA and Sec. Brooke Rollins for their continued support of American agriculture and the California walnut industry,” said Robert Verloop, CEO of the California Walnut Commission. “This purchase provides a meaningful market opportunity for California walnuts, while helping ensure nutritious, American-grown food reaches people across the country.”
The announcement comes as the California walnut industry enters a new harvest season following the second-largest crop in its history.
“As our industry prepares to harvest the 2026 crop, reducing carry-in from the 2025 crop is an important step toward strengthening overall market conditions,” Verloop said. “This purchase provides an encouraging boost for the industry and supports a healthier market environment as growers and handlers begin the new selling season.”
With this support from USDA, the CWC remains committed to advancing the industry’s long-term sustainability and providing nutritious food to American families in need.
“This announcement reflects USDA’s commitment to our growers to assist them in dealing with the challenges associated with the record 2025 crop, global market disruptions and ongoing trade uncertainties that have suppressed export volumes and grower returns,” said Davin Norene, a third-generation walnut grower from Rio Oso, Calif. and CWC chairman of the Board. — Story contributed by the California Walnut Commission
