(AP) — This Aug. 10, 2010 file photo shows almonds ready for harvest in Hilmar, Calif.
In 2011, for the first time ever, the value of the California almond crop surpassed the state’s iconic grape industry to move into second place, behind dairy — making almond producing land one of the highest priced and most sought-after in the region. The demand for almonds is driven largely by the newly-minted money-spending middle classes in China and India. (AP Photo/Al Golub, file)
