From No Cellphone to Autonomous Tractors

How Russell Maichel Became a Leader in Tech-Driven Orchard Farming

Back in the 1980s, Russell Maichel was busy growing almonds, walnuts, and pistachios without even a cellphone in sight. Fast forward to today, and his orchard is buzzing with a fully autonomous tractor cruising through the rows, spraying pesticides and fertilizers to protect his trees.

For the past 35 years, Russell has poured his heart and soul into working orchards in Northern California. He manages olive, prune, and almond trees across 3,500 acres in the Woodland area. Russell and his staff grow an impressive ten million pounds of nuts every year.

Caring for an Orchard

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