Momentum Is Building: A New Chapter for the Chestnut Growers of America

There’s a quiet but unmistakable shift happening in the chestnut industry. Across orchards, research institutions, conferences, and kitchen tables, the conversation is changing. Chestnuts are no longer just a nostalgic symbol or a specialty crop tucked into the margins. Instead, they are being recognized as a resilient, nutritious, and economically viable crop with a powerful future.

At the Chestnut Growers of America (CGA), that shift is fueling a renewed sense of momentum. It is being carried forward by a committed, hands‑on board focused on connection, collaboration, and clarity of purpose.

From steady roots to forward motion

CGA has always existed to serve growers. The organization shares research, improves communication, supports breeding efforts, and advocates for quality chestnuts in the marketplace. That mission has not changed. However, the scale of opportunity in front of us has changed.

Demand for fresh chestnuts is growing. New growers are planting trees. Universities are investing in research. Consumers are becoming curious not just at the holidays, but year‑round.

Momentum does not come from a single initiative. Instead, it comes from alignment. It comes from growers, researchers, marketers, and educators all pulling in the same direction. That is where CGA is leaning in.

A board built for this moment

At our most recent meeting, we officially welcomed and aligned a board that reflects both the heritage and the future of the chestnut industry. This group represents orchards large and small, multiple regions of the country, and a shared belief that collaboration—not competition—is how niche crops grow.

The 2026–2027 Chestnut Growers of America Board of Directors brings together growers and leaders from across the country. Together, they are working to advance the future of the U.S. chestnut industry and make this quiet shift impossible to ignore.

The 2026–2027 Chestnut Growers of America Board of Directors — growers and leaders from across the country working together to advance the future of the U.S. chestnut industry.

This is not a ceremonial board. It’s a working board—one that’s actively engaged in:

• Strengthening communication with growers
• Supporting research and education
• Improving how chestnuts are represented to consumers
• Exploring modern tools for outreach and visibility
• Ensuring CGA remains relevant, accessible, and grower-driven

We’re asking thoughtful questions, listening carefully, and building momentum step by step.

Why This Matters—Right Now

Perennial crops require patience. So do strong organizations. But patience doesn’t mean standing still.

The chestnut industry is at an inflection point. The next chapter will be written by growers who are willing to share knowledge, tell their stories, and work together to educate the market.

CGA’s role is to work towards helping growers feel less isolated, better informed, and more confident navigating what comes next.

That includes everything from:

• Research updates and orchard best practices
• Conferences and field days
• Communication tools and shared education
• A stronger, clearer public narrative around chestnuts

Looking Ahead

Momentum isn’t loud. It’s cumulative. It shows up in small wins, shared resources, and the steady feeling that you’re not doing this alone.

As a board, we’re committed to honoring the growers who built this organization while also preparing CGA for the next generation of chestnut farmers.

If you’re planting trees, harvesting nuts, experimenting, learning, or simply chestnut-curious—you’re part of this momentum. We’d love your support–and you can join or renew your membership here.

And we’re just getting started. Reach out to Melanie anytime to chat, collaborate, brainstorm and contribute!

Melanie Jones – [email protected] / 678.234.4894
Vice President of Growth, Chestnut Growers of America
Co-Founder, United Chestnuts
Co-Lead, EBB Farms