It is the time of the year when many operations begin the process of replanting almond orchards. Orchard removal and eventual replacement is one of the more critical times of farm operations. The decision to remove a block varies by farmer. Some remove blocks based on a cycle of redevelopment, meaning that blocks are removed on a schedule based on age to assist with cash-flow. Some are removed due to expensive or inadequate resources (e.g. water). Many are removed when production drops below a certain profitability level. Removing a block on profitability can be tricky. Blocks tend to alternate bear. An off year may trigger removal, but it could be coming into an on year. Prices also fluctuate. Therefore, this may not be the best way to decide on removing a block. Another consideration should be determining the the stand of trees remaining in the orchard and the rate of tree loss over the past few years. Commonly, in old orchards, trees are lost to heart rot decay fungi and corresponding wind throw. These losses tend to increase as the orchard ages. If this rate is increasing and the orchard stand is below 75%, removal and replanting should be considered. This is a conservative estimate, and should be evaluated with production records and tree stand for your own operations (This estimate is based on an 80% canopy coverage at maturity with minimal tree losses). Once the decision to remove is made, the work begins. Consider harvesting the later varieties earlier to allow more time in the process.  Nematode sampling should occur prior to removal to determine which species are present and assist in rootstock selection. This can be done one to two years prior to removal. Line up the resources for orchard removal, which can be done by tub grinders, whole orchard incorporation, or removal