STEPHENVILLE, Texas — The Texas Pecan Growers Association and the Texas Pecan Board proudly announce an innovative collaboration with Tarleton State University to establish the Texas Pecan Innovation Center.
The strategic partnership, made possible through the Texas Department of Agriculture Innovation Pilot Project grant, marks a significant milestone in the efforts to enhance resources for Texas pecan growers and fortify the pecan industry as a whole.
The collaboration aims to create continuing resources and initiatives to address the diverse needs of pecan growers, their businesses, and the industry at large.
“We are excited to embark on this team project and develop assets with great and lasting impacts for those who are stewards of the Texas state tree and produce Texas’ native nut, pecans,” said Blair Krebs, Director of the Texas Pecan Growers Association.
Through a multifaceted approach encompassing research, education, infrastructure development, and outreach, the new initiative aims to empower pecan growers and strengthen the entire pecan community.
“The Agricultural Innovation Pilot Project grant from the Texas Department of Agriculture provides us with a unique opportunity to join forces with the Texas Pecan Growers Association and the Texas Pecan Board,” said Tarleton State College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dean Barry Lambert. “Together, we will explore innovative ways to foster resilience and prosperity for pecan growers and the allied industry.
“Pecans, grown in every county in Texas, hold a special place in our state’s agricultural landscape. The establishment of the Texas Pecan Innovation Center will provide resources for collective brainstorming, enabling us to think outside the shell and enhance producer-level engagement and outreach. I am proud that our faculty had the opportunity to help develop this center and look forward to seeing our faculty and students work alongside the pecan growers of Texas to build a more resilient and sustainable industry.”
The Texas Pecan Growers Association, established in 1921, represents pecan growers and members across the state of Texas. The association focuses on assisting and leading pecan growers through education, research, promotion, and advocacy.
The Texas Pecan Board is the check-off program for pecans in the state of Texas. Established in 1998 the board’s mission is to develop, promote, and protect the Texas Pecan Industry. The organizations work in unison for the benefit of the Texas pecan industry.
For further information, please contact Krebs at [email protected] or call 979-846-3285.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.