Fort Bend County Pecan Show Celebrates Top Growers in 2025
The 2025 Fort Bend County Pecan Show showcased the region’s best growers and their exceptional contributions to the pecan industry. Held in March 2025, the event celebrated numerous winners across various divisions, reflecting both the quality and diversity of pecan varieties cultivated locally.
Highlights from the Commercial Division
In the Commercial Division, the top honors were awarded to the Kiowa variety, claimed by Bernie Brezina from Fort Bend County, who took home the Grand Champion title. Another notable winner, the Grand Champion Forkert, was presented to John and Bertha Abraham from Wharton County. The Reserve Champion titles went to the Sioux variety, awarded to Stan Hruska, and the Nacono, also won by John and Bertha Abraham.
The competition featured a range of categories, with the following notable placements:
– **First Place**: Caddo by Bernie Brezina, Desirable by Brody Druke, and Oconee by John Greene.
– **Second Place**: Caddo by Kelly and Nancy Kehrer, Desirable by John Cotterell, and Forkert by Stephanie King.
Classic & New Division Winners
The Classic & New Division saw impressive entries with the Grand Champion title awarded to both the Stuart variety, grown by Chuck Caldwell, and the Mahan variety, cultivated by Susan and Richard Harrison. The Reserve Champion was awarded to a selection of variety seedlings by Mark Hinton.
Other significant placements included:
– **First Place**: Elliott by John and Bertha Abraham and Jackson by Larry Fleming.
– **Second Place**: Jackson by Brody Druke and Mahan by Chuck Caldwell.
The competition not only highlighted the hard work of growers but also emphasized the importance of pecan cultivation within the community.
Advancements to Regional Competitions
Several winners have earned the opportunity to advance to regional competitions. In the Commercial Division, varieties such as Caddo, Forkert, and Sioux will represent Fort Bend County and Wharton County in upcoming events.
In the Classic & New Division, contenders like Cape Fear and Stuart are set to compete, showcasing the best of local agriculture on a larger stage. The Natives Division also saw strong representation, with Suzanne Yoder and John and Bertha Abraham taking home Grand Champion titles.
The Fort Bend County Pecan Show continues to be a pillar of the local agricultural community, fostering a spirit of competition and collaboration among growers dedicated to the craft of pecan production. As the winners prepare for regional challenges, their success highlights the rich tradition of pecan growing in the area.
