Mount Vernon FFA students concluded their participation in the State Soils Career Development Event (CDE) on October 11 in Mount Gilead, Ohio. The event attracted over 350 participants and 100 teams from across the state, who evaluated soil pits to understand land use, soil management, and conservation practices.
The Urban Soils Team from Mount Vernon FFA achieved a 10th place finish, while the Rural Soils Team secured the 20th position among numerous competing chapters. The competition required students to assess various soil characteristics such as depth, texture, structure, erosion, and drainage. This knowledge is crucial for determining optimal land use for agriculture or urban development.
The event serves as an educational platform for students to enhance their environmental science skills and emphasizes the significance of responsible land and water management. Throughout the season, both Mount Vernon FFA teams advanced through county and district levels to qualify for the state competition.
Participants in the Urban Contest included Simon Ruprecht, Calleigh Armstrong, Phoebe Mussard, and Izzy Barron. Competing in the Rural Contest were Zack Busenburg, Madison Seng, Charlie Page, and Ryan Fletcher.
