National FFA Week
Feb 19, 2024
As we celebrate National FFA Week, it’s important to reflect on the significant impact that youth involvement in agriculture can have on shaping our country’s future. The agriculture industry is not just about farming — it’s about feeding nations, fostering innovation, and preserving the environment.
As you consider whether to get your child involved in their local FFA chapter, here are a few reasons why we believe youth involvement in agriculture is so important.
Feeding the world
Agriculture is the backbone of our global food system. With the world’s population steadily increasing, there is a growing demand for food production, and the response to that need starts on our local farms. Engaging youth in agriculture equips them with the knowledge and skills to address this challenge. Whether it’s through traditional farming methods or innovative technologies like vertical farming and aquaponics when your acreage is small, young minds have the potential to revolutionize food production and ensure food security for generations to come.
Fostering innovation
Agriculture is a dynamic and rapidly evolving field that offers endless opportunities for innovation. From precision farming and drone technology to genetic engineering and biotechnology, there is no shortage of groundbreaking advancements transforming the agricultural landscape. By getting involved in agriculture from a young age, youth can contribute fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to address challenges in the industry.
Building life skills
In addition to technical knowledge, involvement in agriculture provides youth with valuable life skills that are applicable beyond the farm. From teamwork and leadership to problem-solving and resilience, agriculture teaches important lessons that prepare youth for success in any career path they choose. Whether they pursue a career in agriculture or not, the skills and experiences gained through agricultural involvement are invaluable assets that shape well-rounded individuals and future leaders.
Connecting with nature
In today’s digital age, many young people are increasingly disconnected from nature as they spend much of their time behind a phone or tv screen. Agriculture offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the land, foster a deeper appreciation for our environment, and develop a sense of responsibility towards its management. Working outdoors, observing seasonal cycles, and caring for animals often creates a deeper level of respect for what has been entrusted in our care, creating a lifelong connection to nature that extends far beyond the farm.
Giving back to the community
Agriculture is deeply intertwined with a community’s resilience and prosperity. When youth get involved in agriculture, they are given the opportunity to help strengthen their local economies, promote food security, and develop community connections. Through initiatives such as farmers’ markets and other farm-to-table programs, young farmers can play a vital role in supporting local businesses and ensuring access to fresh, nutritious food for all members of their community.
So, in honor of National FFA Week happening this week, consider reaching out to your school’s local FFA chapter to get your child involved in an organization that changes lives and prepares members for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. For more information on the events of the week, click here.
For more content like this, check out the latest issue of The Cooperator.
As you consider whether to get your child involved in their local FFA chapter, here are a few reasons why we believe youth involvement in agriculture is so important.
Feeding the world
Agriculture is the backbone of our global food system. With the world’s population steadily increasing, there is a growing demand for food production, and the response to that need starts on our local farms. Engaging youth in agriculture equips them with the knowledge and skills to address this challenge. Whether it’s through traditional farming methods or innovative technologies like vertical farming and aquaponics when your acreage is small, young minds have the potential to revolutionize food production and ensure food security for generations to come.
Fostering innovation
Agriculture is a dynamic and rapidly evolving field that offers endless opportunities for innovation. From precision farming and drone technology to genetic engineering and biotechnology, there is no shortage of groundbreaking advancements transforming the agricultural landscape. By getting involved in agriculture from a young age, youth can contribute fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to address challenges in the industry.
Building life skills
In addition to technical knowledge, involvement in agriculture provides youth with valuable life skills that are applicable beyond the farm. From teamwork and leadership to problem-solving and resilience, agriculture teaches important lessons that prepare youth for success in any career path they choose. Whether they pursue a career in agriculture or not, the skills and experiences gained through agricultural involvement are invaluable assets that shape well-rounded individuals and future leaders.
Connecting with nature
In today’s digital age, many young people are increasingly disconnected from nature as they spend much of their time behind a phone or tv screen. Agriculture offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the land, foster a deeper appreciation for our environment, and develop a sense of responsibility towards its management. Working outdoors, observing seasonal cycles, and caring for animals often creates a deeper level of respect for what has been entrusted in our care, creating a lifelong connection to nature that extends far beyond the farm.
Giving back to the community
Agriculture is deeply intertwined with a community’s resilience and prosperity. When youth get involved in agriculture, they are given the opportunity to help strengthen their local economies, promote food security, and develop community connections. Through initiatives such as farmers’ markets and other farm-to-table programs, young farmers can play a vital role in supporting local businesses and ensuring access to fresh, nutritious food for all members of their community.
So, in honor of National FFA Week happening this week, consider reaching out to your school’s local FFA chapter to get your child involved in an organization that changes lives and prepares members for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. For more information on the events of the week, click here.
For more content like this, check out the latest issue of The Cooperator.