Palmer to host annual FFA convention

PALMER — Alaska FFA Association (formerly Future Farmers of America) will host students from across the state at its 36th annual State Convention April 25-29 at Camp Challenge, 7180 E. Twin Lakes Dr., Wasilla.

“We’re excited to host the state FFA convention in Palmer this year,” said state FFA co-adviser Rayne Reynolds. “Students prepare year-round for career development events, and it’s great to see the knowledge and skills they’ve gained to prepare them for future careers.”

FFA members involved in agricultural and natural resource education will compete in leadership and career development events, participate in a service project and join in interactive workshops.

Eight chapters are expected to attend the convention sponsored by the Mat-Su Farm Bureau and Palmer Soil and Water Conservation District. Delta Junction, Homer, North Pole, Fairbanks, Palmer, Tuluksak, Kenny Lake and Kodiak will bring about 100 members each.

Students will compete in events such as floriculture, agricultural mechanics, prepared and extemporaneous speaking and job interviews. Event winners will have an opportunity to represent Alaska and compete at the National FFA Convention in October in Indianapolis, Ind.

The Canon Envirothon is at Spring Creek Farm. During the Envirothon, students will compete in soils, wildlife, aquatics, forestry and current issues. The winning team will have a chance to compete at the National Envirothon in Sellinsgrove, Pa.

Students also will have an opportunity to participate in workshops led by National FFA Western Region’s Seth Prat,t who represents more than 500,000 students and travels throughout the country leading personal growth and leadership training seminars for FFA members.

For more information, contact Amy Harmon at 982-2310 or aharmonffa@gmail.com.