Celebrating the 2026 Apple Grower of the Year Regional Winners

Robert (Bobby) Brown III carries on 1804 family legacy in western New York while pushing apple production with cutting-edge practices and collaboration.

Gary Mount of Terhune Orchards in Princeton, NJ, has passed away. He will be remembered for his leadership as an apple grower and so much more.

Greg Nix needed just eight months after a devastating fire to reopen his North Carolina packing house. His reward — a new Apple Grower of the Year award.

Michigan farmer Jim Engelsma, the 2025 Apple Grower of the Year, drinks in a banner (and busy) year.

2025 Apple Grower of the Year Jim Engelsma officially received the award during a reception this past week. Watch a video to hear his thoughts and more.

Always prepared, measured, and confident, Jim Engelsma takes multileader systems, cidermaking, and mentorship to another level in Michigan.

Industry colleagues speak out in praise of Jim Engelsma being named the 2025 Apple Grower of the Year.

American Fruit Grower and Valent U.S.A. recognize overall winner of the annual award, including three regional winners. Find out this year’s picks.

Nominate someone who has made a positive impact on the apple industry. Let us hear your voice. Time is running out to submit your nomination.

American Fruit Grower Editor David Eddy says when it comes to modeling success, 2024 Apple Grower of the Year Tim Welsh knows from experience.

Hurricane Helene’s impact on 2023 Apple Grower of the Year Kenny Barnwell put things in perspective for American Fruit Grower Senior Editor Tom Skernivitz.

Tim Welsh of Columbia Orchard Management was joined by friends and family for industry award presentation and reception. Check out scenes from the event.

Tim Welsh of Columbia Orchard Management in Wenatchee, WA, is always looking forward to what’s next.

Learn who earned honors this year among top apple growers from the East, Midwest/Mountain, and West regions.

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American Fruit Grower Editor Tom Skernivitz curates a few hot takes from Kenny Barnwell, the 2023 Apple Grower of the Year.

Though popular in many parts of the world, apples hold a special place in the hearts of Americans.

Few growers stand up for their profession like Kenny Barnwell of Kenny Barnwell Orchards. He hopes more will.

Learn who earned honors this year among top apple growers from the East, Midwest, and West regions.