Texas pecan growers honor Texas A&M AgriLife Extension expert
Young-Ki Jo named Texas Pecan Growers Association Research and Extension Specialist of the Year
Young-Ki Jo, Ph.D., Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service plant virologist and professor in the Texas A&M Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, has been named the 2026 Research and Extension Specialist of the Year by the Texas Pecan Growers Association, TPGA.
Young-Ki Jo, Ph.D., Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service plant virologist and professor in the Texas A&M Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, has been named the 2026 Research and Extension Specialist of the Year by the Texas Pecan Growers Association. (Texas A&M AgriLife)
Jo received the award during the TPGA annual conference in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Texas pecan industry through research, outreach and collaboration with growers.
The Research and Extension Specialist of the Year Award honors individuals whose work has significantly advanced the Texas pecan industry. Recipients may include county Extension agents, AgriLife specialists and other professionals whose research and outreach directly benefit pecan producers across the state.
Jo was selected for his expertise in pecan pathology and his dedication to helping growers address some of the industry’s most pressing challenges. His research has focused on issues including pecan scab, pecan leaf dieback and root rot, while his collaborative work with researchers across multiple disciplines has led to practical, science-based solutions for producers.
Jo said research is only part of the equation, emphasizing maintaining close relationships with growers helps ensure new technologies and management practices are practical and effective.
“Good research is important, but also having a good connection with the industry is important. We communicate about their current issues, and then we provide timely information to help them prepare and respond to those challenges,” Jo said.
Supporting pecan growers through science
Texas is one of the nation’s leading pecan-producing states, generating approximately $380 million in total economic impact annually, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. Partnerships between researchers, Extension specialists and growers continue to play a vital role in supporting the industry’s long-term success, said Blair Krebs, TPGA executive director and publisher of Pecan South magazine. Jo’s recognition reflects his lasting impact on pecan research and his commitment to serving Texas producers through innovative research, education and collaboration.
“Dr. Jo has become a valuable expert who has made important positive impacts working directly with our growers,” Krebs said. “He’s also preparing the next generation of researchers through his graduate students, helping ensure the future of pecan research in Texas.”
In addition to his disease management research, Jo has recently worked with industry partners on developing workforce solutions for the Texas pecan industry, reflecting his commitment to addressing both current and emerging challenges facing growers.
Jo said one of his long-term goals is ensuring the future of the industry by preparing the next generation of producers and agricultural professionals.
“For the long-term future of horticulture and the pecan industry, it’s about the next generation,” Jo said. “How are we going to train the workforce? We’re trying to reach new or inexperienced farmers and students and expose them to new horticultural tools and technologies.”
Krebs said TPGA recognizes researchers and Extension specialists because growers depend on their expertise to solve real-world production challenges.
“These boots-on-the-ground resources are incredibly important to our membership and growers across the state,” Krebs said. “When new issues arise, it’s critical to have experts they can call who understand the challenges and can help develop solutions.”
