Former California Citrus Mutual President Joel Nelsen passes

California citrus industry advocate Joel Nelsen, former president of California Citrus Mutual (CCM), died on July 1 at age 78. Nelsen, who led CCM from 1982 to 2019, was recognized for his lifelong dedication to representing and promoting California’s citrus growers.

During his tenure, Nelsen was instrumental in securing significant industry achievements, including the passage of the largest tax relief package for California agriculture and efforts to prevent the importation of lemons from Argentina, aimed at protecting against pest and disease threats. His advocacy extended nationwide, with regular trips to Sacramento, Washington D.C., and internationally to support the citrus industry.

Joel Nelsen. Photo by California Citrus Mutual.

Born in San Diego on September 27, 1946, Nelsen started his career as a produce clerk at Lucky Stores at age 16 and served four tours in Vietnam with the U.S. Navy from 1966 to 1970. He later graduated from Cal State University, Fullerton, and served as CEO of the Fresh Produce Council for ten years before joining CCM. His move to Visalia in 1982 marked the beginning of his 37-year leadership in California citrus.

Post-retirement, Nelsen briefly returned to industry leadership in 2023 as interim president and CEO of the American Pistachios Growers, assisting with a transition period.