In an effort to boost the production of pecan growth in the area, the Pike County Extension Office is offering a regional pecan production workshop next weekend.

“Often we receive calls about pecans, especially the past few years when prices have been strong,” said Grant Lyons, Pike County Extension coordinator. “We have many homeowners ask how they can get involved with pecan production. This workshop is ideal for a homeowner or anyone interested in pecan production and management.”

Lyons said Whaley Pecan is a great local resource and provider in Pike County. However pecans are sometimes challenging to grow in Alabama for beginners, but a little knowledge and effort is all it takes to produce good quality pecans.

Dr. Bill Goff, Auburn University pecan specialist, will be the guest speaker and will discuss a variety of topics including selection, planting and care, pecan pest management and more.

Besides being a tasty treat, Goff noted, pecans are a great source of several important nutrients including vitamins A and E, folic acid and calcium. They are also sodium-free and full of fiber.

“A handful of pecans has about the same about amount of fiber as a medium apple,” Goff shared.

Lyons brought up there are many ways to add pecans into a daily diet – including adding them to cereal, eating them toasted, or adding them to salad, brownies or ice cream.

The workshop will be held on Saturday, Sept. 28 at Boots & Saddles at 100 Rodeo Road in Ariton from 9 a.m. until noon. The event is offered at no charge thanks to First South Farm Credit, Lyons said. Registration is required and can be done by calling the Pike County Extension office at 566-0985.