Newton FFA shines at national FFA convention

Twelve members of the Newton FFA chapter recently attended the 91st National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis.

Four members of Newton FFA competed at the National FFA Nursery/Landscape Career Development Event (CDE). Chaz Wells, Jaden Adams, Logan Chandler and Lindsay Campbell received a silver ranking in the competition.

The National FFA Nursery/Landscape CDE is a competitive event in which FFA members test their knowledge and skills in nursery practices and landscaping. Participants must complete a general knowledge exam testing horticultural principles including plant anatomy, production, marketing, turf, landscape design and maintenance. Each participant must also complete practicums involving landscape estimating, plant propagation or potting, identification of plants, disorders and equipment. The Newton team competed on local and state levels to earn the privilege of representing their state at the National FFA Convention & Expo.

Another highlight for the chapter was graduate member Jarret Horn receiving the American FFA Degree. Jarret is the son of James and Neisha Horn, of Newton.

The American FFA Degree is bestowed upon a select group of students in recognition of their years of academic and professional excellence. To be eligible, FFA members must have earned and productively invested $10,000 through a supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program in which they start, own or hold a professional position in an existing agricultural enterprise. Recipients must also complete 50 hours community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement.

Horn has developed several SAE’s including crops, cattle and swine. In addition he has worked for several agribusinesses. Horn is a senior majoring in agriculture education at the College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Mo.

Newton FFA members also attended convention sessions and visited with colleges and agribusinesses. The members also attended a rodeo and a private concert by country singer Garth Brooks. The Newton FFA members had a great time on the trip and are motivated for more success in 2019.