A Q&A profile of Rich Gemperle of Gemperle Family Farms in Turlock, a second-generation almond grower with a background as a hydrologic engineer. Gemperle discusses how his hydrogeology training informs a science-driven, trial-based approach to sustainable farming — including a long-running compost program using poultry manure from the family’s egg operation, cover cropping and hedgerow programs, collaborative university research at LaGrange Ranch, water security considerations under SGMA, and the broader challenge of almonds’ public image around water use.
