Nevada Pecans Affected by Dry Weather - Yield Decreases

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

The impact of unusual weather is evident in Nevada's pecan orchards. Farmers are confronted with the harsh reality of dry spells, particularly the Missouri Pecan Growers.

These once thriving orchards are now facing immense challenges, with almost 75% of their crop lost last year.

Ben Bennett, the leader of the group, discusses the unexpected yet concerning events. Despite the challenges, the trees produced more nuts than anticipated. He theorizes that this might be nature's way of ensuring survival.

However, there's a catch. The pecans are considerably smaller, which means there's less of the edible portion.

For comparison, Bennett demonstrated how the previous year's pecan was larger than the current ones, which are still in their "shuck." Once this outer layer is removed, the nut inside appears significantly smaller.

Interestingly, these aren't the typical pecans one might find in Texas or Georgia. They are native to Missouri and have a sweeter taste, setting them apart from the rest.

But what does this mean for consumers? Bennett highlights the dilemma. Raising prices might not be the solution, as people could opt for alternatives.

He remains hopeful of harvesting around 100,000 pounds this year, enough to sustain until the next harvest season. Yet, like all farmers, Bennett's primary wish is straightforward: consistent rain to nourish crops.

For the local community, supporting these pecan farmers could play a crucial role in ensuring the continued availability of this sweeter variety.