Categories: California Business NewsCalifornia State News

Ken Melban Promoted to President of California Avocado Commission

A picturesque view of a California avocado orchard, thriving and ready for the harvest season.

News Summary

Ken Melban has been appointed as the president of the California Avocado Commission, effective May 22, 2025. With extensive experience in the agricultural sector, Melban aims to further advocate for California avocado growers. Under his leadership, the industry is poised for growth, including a promising harvest anticipated in the upcoming season. The CAC is predicting a notable increase in avocado production, highlighting the industry’s resilience and expansion amidst ongoing challenges.

California – The California Avocado Commission (CAC) has announced the promotion of Ken Melban to president, effective May 22, 2025. Melban, who joined the CAC in 2011, has a robust background in the agricultural industry, having risen through various leadership positions within the organization. His experience and commitment to advocating for California avocado growers are seen as key assets for his new role.

Before his promotion, Melban served as vice president of industry affairs and operations since late 2023. His earlier roles included director of issues management and vice president of industry affairs, reflecting his extensive involvement with the commission and a deep-seated understanding of the challenges faced by avocado producers in the state. Jason Cole, the CAC chair, commended Melban for his exceptional leadership in both financial administration and industry affairs programs.

Melban’s track record includes significant advocacy for California avocado growers, especially in tackling challenges like post-fire recovery and the threat posed by harmful pests from imported avocados. He played a pivotal role in establishing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for the industry. Additionally, he led efforts to expand California’s avocado export program, culminating in securing market access to China in 2020 after extensive negotiations lasting nine years.

With over 20 years of experience in produce leadership, Melban’s expertise extends beyond the CAC. He has worked with California commodity boards and the National Grape & Wine Initiative, enhancing his proficiency in agricultural issues. Melban holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in leadership and organizational studies from Fresno Pacific University, equipping him with essential skills for managing and advocating within the agricultural sector.

In the realm of avocado production, the future remains promising. Local farmer Rick Shade, who operates Shade Farms with approximately 5,200 avocado trees, anticipates a near-record harvest for the upcoming 2026 season. Last year, Shade Farms produced around 250,000 pounds of avocados and expects a larger yield this year as the trees are maturing. This reflects a broader trend within the California avocado industry, valued at an impressive $1.5 billion.

The CAC estimates a statewide harvest of 375 million pounds for the current year, a notable increase from 350 million pounds in the previous year, largely attributed to the ongoing trend of increased tree planting. Over the last decade, about 300,000 new avocado trees have been added each year across California, enhancing the industry’s production capabilities.

Santa Barbara County alone contributes significantly to this growth, boasting around 5,700 acres of avocado cultivation. This makes avocado production one of the top three highest-grossing fruit and nut crops in the county. Despite these achievements, the CAC has chosen not to provide commentary on avocado prices in stores for the upcoming year.

Consumers looking to enjoy California avocados are encouraged to choose harder fruits and allow them to ripen at home, which can improve quality and flavor. The consistent growth and expansion of the California avocado industry demonstrate its resilience and potential for future success, bolstered by leadership like Ken Melban’s in the upcoming years.