Pecans named Nov. Crop of the Month

The Georgia Department of Agriculture has proclaimed pecans the “Crop of the Month” for November.

Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin signed the proclamation yesterday recognizing the importance of the pecan to the state’s economy as well as its nutrient value and its versatility in the kitchen.  The proclamation also recognized Georgia pecan growers for the excellent job they do growing and marketing pecans.

November was chosen as the month to honor pecans because the harvest is underway and because of the popularity of pecans in pies and other dishes at Thanksgiving.

Georgia produces one-third of all the pecans grown in the United States.  Georgia growers expect to harvest close to 100 million pounds of pecans this year.  The value of Georgia’s 2007 crop was $159 million.

Georgia is also America’s leader in the international marketing of pecans.  “Our International Trade Office educates buyers around the world about the goodness of Georgia pecans,” said Commissioner Irvin.  The proclamation states that “Georgia pecans are being asked for from the pastry shops of Paris to the restaurants of Rotterdam to the sweet shops of Sydney.”

Joining Irvin at the proclamation signing were Hilton R. Segler, president, Georgia Pecan Growers Association; State Rep. Gene Maddox; State Rep. Tony Sellier; Administrative Assistant Leah Tatum-Dick representing State Senator John Bulloch; and Agriculture Deputy Commissioner Terry Coleman.

For a copy of the proclamation call 404-656-3689.

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