Western Agricultural Processors Association Is Now Western Tree Nut Association.
For years, WAPA has set the standard for advocacy, expertise, and industry leadership. Now, as the Western Tree Nut Association (WTNA), we’re expanding our commitment to better serve both processors, hullers, and growers.
What's Changing?
Expanded Membership
Now welcoming growers alongside hullers and processors of all four tree nuts: almonds, pecans, pistachios and walnuts.
Stronger Advocacy
Enhanced industry representation at state and federal levels on key issues facing the tree nut industry.
More Resources
Access to exclusive tools, insights, and networking opportunities.
Hullers and Processors - Tier 1
Tier 1 facilities receive the Western Tree Nut Association’s unrivaled representation on regulatory and legislative issues such as food safety, air quality, worker safety, labor, energy, transportation, tax, and environmental issues. With six (6) full-time and one part time staff in Fresno, and a lobbying firm in Sacramento. Any of WTNA’s consulting services would be performed and billed on an “as needed” hourly basis.
Hullers and Processors - Tier 2
Tier 2 facilities receive Tier 1 representation plus all of WTNA’s critically acclaimed and unmatched consulting services on issues such as employee safety plan development and implementation, equipment specific lockout tag-out plans, air pollution permits, hazardous materials business plans, fumigation management plans, spill prevention control and countermeasure plans, pressure vessel permits, and much, much more all at membership rates.
Growers
Growers receive the Western Tree Nut Association’s unrivaled representation on regulatory and legislative issues such as food safety, air quality, water quality worker safety, labor, energy, pesticides, tax, and environmental issues. With six (6) full-time and one part time staff in Fresno, and a lobbying firm in Sacramento. Any of WTNA’s consulting services would be performed and billed on an “as needed” hourly basis.
Hullers and Processors - Tier 1
Tier 1 facilities receive the Western Tree Nut Association’s unrivaled representation on regulatory and legislative issues such as food safety, air quality, worker safety, labor, energy, transportation, tax, and environmental issues. With six (6) full-time and one part time staff in Fresno, and a lobbying firm in Sacramento. Any of WTNA’s consulting services would be performed and billed on an “as needed” hourly basis.
Who We Are
The Western Tree Nut Association (WTNA) was originally formed in 2009 as the Western Agricultural Processors Association (WAPA) at the request and urging of several almond hullers and processors to provide comprehensive representation on legislative and regulatory issues, while also providing hands on environmental and safety services.
From air quality permits to food safety plans and inspections, from handling OSHA violations and appeals to writing safety programs and plans, no issue is too small or too large for WTNA. WTNA has assembled a very capable, educated and experienced staff that has testified before Congressional Committees, several California Assembly and Senate Committees, and just about every regulatory agency in California.
2009
That same year, pistachio and walnut operations approached WAPA about joining and by the end of 2009 membership was expanded to include all four tree nuts grown in California. In 2025, the organization expanded to include tree nut growers into the membership.
Tree Nut Growers
WTNA is a voluntary dues organization representing tree nut growers, hullers and processors of almonds, pecans, pistachios and walnuts, and handles many regulatory and legislative issues including but not limited to safety, food safety, air quality, water quality, water supply, transportation, energy, pesticides, and labor.
Board Members
WTNA is governed by its own Board of Directors made up of growers, hullers and processors representatives from all areas of the state, and throughout the industry. The Board meets on a quarterly basis and conducts an Annual Meeting each year.
The Team
Behind WTNA
At WTNA, we don’t just represent the industry—we’re actively engaged in it. With six full-time employees, we provide direct access to expertise and support whenever you need it. Our team stays ahead through continuous education, bringing you the latest insights and best practices to keep you informed and confident.
Education is a core priority. WTNA holds regional safety and labor trainings annually, and every staff member completes ongoing education in environmental, safety, and food safety topics. With over 150 certifications, our team is equipped to address the issues that impact your bottom line.
WTNA also shares key staff with the California Cotton Ginners and Growers Association, enhancing both organizations. This partnership maximizes efficiencies, stretches member dues, and amplifies our collective impact.
