Rob: So, Eric, when it comes to pests, what type of problem are those to
pecan orchards?
Eric Stafne: We have two really significant pests, one being a disease and
one being an insect.
The disease is pecan scab, and that usually happens where the humidity's high,
temperatures are high, a lot of moisture, so talking the eastern part
of the state, central part of the state is most of the problem there.
Our insect pest is pecan weevil, and that is throughout the state; it
can happen anywhere.
It usually comes out in the summer, after we've had a large rain, usually
July, August time, and causes a significant amount of damage.
Rob: Now, in the time you've done this, how variable have you seen
pecan prices be?
Stafne: Pecan prices since I've been here have been very high.
In the past I know they've swung a lot, but in the last three years, they've
been very high, and I expect them to be high this year, again.
Rob: All right, Eric, we appreciate you visiting with us.
Stafne: Thank you.