GES Progress Photo

A new, state-of-the-art almond shelling facility is being constructed here in Kern County. John Wynn, Managing Partner of the company, Golden Empire Shelling, LLC, indicated that the demand for more almond shelling capacity here in Kern County is being driven by the tremendous number of new acres planted to almonds in the last few years, and also the growers desire to have their almonds shelled in a timely manner. "We are a quality driven company" said Wynn, who along with the other owners, most whom are almond growers in the area, are encouraging their friends and neighbors to deliver their almond crop to the new plant. Golden Empire Shelling, LLC is located on Tracy Avenue between 7th Standard Road and Highway 58, and will be ready for the 2008 almond harvest. The large capacity plant is designed to gently handle 60-70 million meat pounds per season, and will employ 25 to 30 seasonal people. An experienced and respected management team has been assembled to conduct the daily operations. CSI Contractors, Inc. of Bakersfield is the General Contractor. Kamper Fabrication, Inc. of Ripon, CA is coordinating the equipment requirements, and ICAD Inc. of Fresno is designing the sophisticated electrical and control systems.