Modified almond harvester reduces orchard dust

Growing concern over the impacts of air quality on human health and the possible links between agricultural production and air quality has sparked interest in determining which agricultural practices produce significant amounts of dust and how dust generation can be reduced. A comparison of the dust generated by a conventional almond harvester with dust generated by a harvester modified to reduce dust was made by measuring particulate matter collected on air sampling filters in an orchard in the Sacramento Valley. Results show that the modified harvester produced significantly less respirable and total dust Equipment modification holds considerable potential to reduce occupational exposure to dust and to reduce impacts of agriculture on ambient air quality.