One of most exciting features of the Nut Growers Society’s Annual Winter Meeting is the announcement of the Hazelnut Grower of the Year award. This award goes to an individual in the industry who has not only demonstrated leadership and innovation, but a long-term commitment and love for the Oregon hazelnut industry. This year’s grower of the year went to none other than R. Verne Gingerich.
Based out of Canby, Oregon, Gingerich is very passionate about growing hazelnuts and has been in the industry for 35+ years. He has served on the Nut Growers Society board from 1988-1993, and as President in 1990. He has served on the Hazelnut Marketing Board, and at many other capacities in agriculture, for which he was awarded the Distinguished Service Award for Individual Contributions to the Agricultural Industry in 2013.
“With Verne being a hazelnut grower, running a receiving station, and also being a hazelnut processor — he fully understands all sides of the hazelnut industry,” Shared Lisa Pascoe from Northwest Hazelnut Co., presenter of this year’s award. “Verne has always been there for the hazelnut industry: encouraging and educating new growers, helping understand and developing markets, and providing true leadership when called upon. He is always a huge asset for those he helps.” Read more about Gingerich soon in Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.
