Joint Statement from Our Pecan Industry Organizations

“The American Pecan Council, the American Pecan Promotion Board, the National Pecan Shellers Association and the National Pecan Federation come together to express their deepest sympathies to the families grappling with the destruction of Hurricane Helene. 

“As an industry that has increasingly found its strength through unity, we must all recognize that what happens to one grower, happens to us all. While the loss of human life in the East is the ultimate consequence of this storm’s wrath, there are no words for the images of entire orchards plucked of every tree. As a crop that depends on an investment in pecan trees that can take decades to recoup, the loss to our Georgia farm families is unfathomable. 

“Each of our organizations is working to educate federal and state officials on the damages incurred and recovery needs. We will also work to support local organizations, like the Georgia Pecan Growers Association, that provide a critical voice for farmers. Georgia Growers impacted by Hurricane Helene are encouraged to contact the Georgia Pecan Growers Association with specific questions. Their contact is Mary Bruorton, who can be reached at mary@georgiapecan.org or (229) 382-2187.

“Please contact industry@americanpecan.com if there are impacts in other states of which we should be aware.

“Until more help arrives, growers impacted are encouraged to use USDA’s Disaster Assistance Recovery Tool. For those struggling with the undoubted emotional strain, the State of Georgia offers online resources, including dialing 9-8-8, which is the Georgia Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. 

“We encourage the broader industry to consider supporting charities working to help families affected by Helene.”

Deborah Walden-Ralls
Chair of American Pecan Promotion Board

Larry Don Womack
Chair of American Pecan Council and National Pecan Federation

Alex Willson
Chair of National Pecan Shellers Association

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