Dole provides direction, technical guidance and training to independent growers and suppliers concerning safety, environmental protection and product quality.

Dole assists its suppliers in achieving the Dole standards by providing them with recommendations and training on Good Agricultural Practices for irrigation, fertilization, weed, nematode, insect and disease control. Dole agronomists are in constant contact with the growers and make regular field visits to monitor our suppliers' practices and measure their performance.

Agronomists are specifically trained to conduct formal and informal audits. If issues are identified, Dole and the growers work together to find a solution. If an independent grower fails to comply, Dole management intervenes immediately to ensure the ongoing quality of the product and protection of the environment. Dole terminates partnerships with suppliers who are unwilling to comply with Dole standards.

As part of the Company's ISO 14001 certification programs, Dole operations undergo periodic independent audits by accredited third parties. These inspections can take place as often as every six months to ensure that Dole engages in environmentally friendly practices in accordance with international standards. Some of our customers also audit our farms to check that our practices comply with their private standards.