Javier Fernandez-Salvador has been appointed as the new executive director of the University of California, Davis Olive Center.
The assistant professor at the agricultural extension service of Oregon State University currently leads the Olea project, dedicated to researching and promoting olive cultivation in the state.
I am honored to receive this appointment and eager to partner with California’s world-class olive growers and processors, as well as my new colleagues at UC Davis.
“Having also served as an extension specialist earlier in my career, I know that Javier will understand how to work closely with growers and be responsive to their needs,” said Helene Dillard, the dean of the university’s department of agricultural and environmental sciences.
“I am confident that he will continue to advance the excellence of the UC Davis Olive Center,” she added.
See Also:Olive Center UpdatesFernandez-Salvador will begin at his new position in June, replacing Dan Flynn, who founded the Olive Center and served as its executive director for 12 years.
Javier Fernandez-Salvador
Flynn, who announced last September that he would be leaving the Olive Center this year, said that he had accomplished what he set out to do with the center but would continue serving as an informal adviser.
“Javier is a great fit for the position,” Flynn said. “He knows agriculture and understands the university. He likes people and they like him back.”
Fernandez-Salvador said that he already has plans for the center’s new direction and future perspectives.
“I am honored to receive this appointment and eager to partner with California’s world-class olive growers and processors, as well as my new colleagues at UC Davis,” Fernandez-Salvador said.
“After learning about the opportunities for working with such an important industry, I’m looking forward to helping advance the mission of the Olive Center,” he added.
Related Articles
Oct. 17, 2024
Major Olive Oil Producer Loses $3M in Spate of Thefts
The CHO Group experienced warehouse thefts in Canada and the United States, with some stolen olive oil appearing at discounted prices.
Dec. 5, 2023
An Olive Oil-Centered Curriculum in California Seeks to Help an Ailing County
Despite its agricultural mite, Kern County suffers from elevated levels of food insecurity, obesity and diabetes compared to the rest of the state.
Nov. 15, 2024
U.S. Consumers Embrace Olive Oil in Squeeze Bottles
Despite the growing popularity of squeeze bottles for their convenience, some question the potential impact on olive oil quality and the environmental burden of the packaging.
Jan. 2, 2024
Corto Bets on Olives as Crop of The Future in Changing Sacramento Valley
As California deals with the impacts of climate change, rising labor costs and worker shortages, Corto Olive president Cliff Little believes planting more olives is a solution.
Jul. 20, 2024
Trade Commission Extends Tariffs on Spanish Black Olives
The decision came two months after the U.S. Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the Commerce Department’s tariffs.
Jan. 2, 2024
Agritourism Takes Off at Arizona’s Queen Creek Olive Mill
Tourism is key to the success of Queen Creek Olive Mill’s business and the promotion of extra virgin olive oil in Arizona.
Nov. 7, 2024
Meet the Retailers Working to Grow Oleotourism Sales After the Vacation Ends
Alicia and Vijay Shroff, co-owners of an olive oil specialty store, have launched a project to deepen the connection between oleotourism operators and visitors.
Jan. 18, 2024
Controlling Black Scale in California Groves
While the invasive insect does not impact oil quality, heavy infestations can reduce olive yields. The pest is expected to spread as California’s winters become milder.