The 2025 Fort Bend County Pecan Show recently concluded, showcasing the exceptional talents of local growers. This annual event highlighted the best pecan varieties across several categories, with awards distributed to both commercial and classic divisions, as well as native categories.
Commercial Division Highlights
In the Commercial Division, the Grand Champion titles were awarded to the Kiowa variety, presented by Bernie Brezina from Fort Bend County, and the Forkert variety, showcased by John and Bertha Abraham from Wharton County. The Reserve Champion honors went to the Sioux variety, cultivated by Stan Hruska, and the Nacono, also from the Abrahams.
Overall, the competition was fierce, with multiple growers earning top spots. Brezina also took home first place in the Caddo category, while Kelly and Nancy Kehrer secured second place in the same category. Other notable winners included Brody Druke, who won first for Desirable, and John Greene, who excelled in the Oconee category.
Classic and Native Divisions Shine
The Classic & New Division saw Chuck Caldwell and Susan and Richard Harrison sharing the Grand Champion titles for their respective Stuart and Mahan varieties. Reserve Champion went to Mark Hinton for his variety of seedlings, while Marlies Sciba also earned accolades for the Cape Fear variety.
In the Natives Division, Suzanne Yoder and the Abrahams each won Grand Champion for their Native varieties, with Hruska taking home the Reserve Champion title.
This year’s competition was marked by a remarkable number of entries and high-quality produce, showcasing the commitment and expertise of local pecan growers.
The following varieties will advance to the regional competitions: from the Commercial Division, Caddo, Forkert, and Nacono are among those moving forward. In the Classic & New Division, varieties such as Cape Fear and Stuart are set to compete further. The Natives Division will also see Suzanne Yoder‘s and the Abrahams’ varieties continue to the next level.
The event not only celebrates the agricultural heritage of the region but also fosters community engagement. Growers and attendees alike look forward to next year’s show, anticipating even more fierce competition and innovation in pecan cultivation.
