Alabama State FFA Land Judging Contest Highlights Soil Health
The Alabama State FFA Land Judging Contest was held on March 8, 2017 at the Holiday Farm in Lowndes County, Alabama. A dozen FFA teams representing three districts from across Alabama competed for the top banner. The event was hosted by Mr. Ronnie Holiday of Holiday Farms, U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, and Lowndes County Soil and Water Conservation District. The event was organized and judged by NRCS State, Area, and local Field Office staff. Pete Wheeler is the District Conservationist for Dallas and Lowndes Counties in Alabama.
The contest was highlighted by an informative Soil Heath Demonstration by NRCS State Conservation Agronomist, Tibor Horvath. Horvath showcased the Soil Health Trailer. Students witnessed the rainfall simulator and cover crops demonstrations. Horvath shared knowledge and demonstrated the importance of keeping our Soils Healthy to about 50 FFA students and Ag teachers.
This year’s event winners were 1st Place- Elkmont High School, 2nd Place –Curry High School, 3rd Place- Falkville High School and 4th Place- Douglas High School. The Elkmont High School Team will represent Alabama at the National Contest in Oklahoma this summer.
Special Thanks to Mr. Ronnie Holiday and the Staff at Holiday Farms and the U.S. Corp of Engineers Reception Center for their exceptional hospitality and support. Mr. Holiday is a board member on the Lowndes County Soil and Water Conservation District Board.
(Submitted By Lawrence McGhee, State Soil Scientist)
