CALHOUN FFA WINS AT STATE EVENT

(06/27/2013)

Pictured are Nicholas Smith, Rebbicca Newlon, Cody Starcher,
Kelsey Jett, Logan McKown, Autumn Jones, and Candice Conrad

Submitted by Calhoun FFA advisor, Don Poage

Seven members of the Calhoun County FFA Chapter went to Morgantown to compete in Agricultural Career Development events, June 18-20.

The members made up 2 judging teams: Forestry and Livestock. The Forestry team finished 1st and the livestock team finished 13th in the state judging events.

In Forestry, Nicholas Smith led the way finishing at 2nd individual followed by Cody Starcher at 3rd individual. Logan McKown and Kelsey Jett tied for 9th individuals. The team score of 1845 just edged out perennial powerhouse Pocahontas County who finished 2nd and Ravenswood (last year's champs) finished 3rd.

Each member had to identify trees and equipment, read a compass, pace unknown distances, cruise timber, and take a written test. Members also had to complete a business problem relating to forestry as a practicum. The FFA team earned their way to compete in the National Forestry event held this October in Louisville, Kentucky.

In livestock, Candice Conrad led the team followed by Autumn Jones and Rebbicca Newlon. Each member had to judge classes of cattle, pigs, and sheep. They had to do a keep-cull class and give oral reasons to a judge.

They graded cattle for feeder-calf evaluation. All of these members are involved in the 4H and FFA Livestock show and sale.