Choosing an Ag class in really necessary when in high school so you don’t end up taking something you don’t like. 

   So today I am going to talk about what the best three ways to know what AG class you should pick.

So the number one thing you should do is figure out what you plan on being in the future. For instance if you wanted to be a gardener or a florist, you would obviously want to pick a floral design class opposed to a AG mechanic class. If you were to pick a class that has nothing to do with your future then you’ll end up not liking that class and hate school. 

    The second thing you want to do is to make sure whatever class you are picking , that it sounds interesting to you as a person. If you just go to the counselors and they give you some bull crap class that you have to take you will end up being Miserable and not liking that class. And speaking from experience I can’t proudly tell you that you do not want to be stuck in a class that you do not enjoy because as the year goes on you get lazier and lazier because if you’re in a class you don’t enjoy then you won’t want to put any effort into doing anything. 

   Finally, the last way to know how to pick the right AG class for you is to follow your endorsement. So at the beginning of your years at high school you are given a test that tells you what endorsement you should follow based on your skills and your personality. And if you follow your endorsement then it should list off some classes that are recommended for you and then it is all in your hands to choose what class you should take based on what sounds the most interesting to you. For example do you have a business endorsement, you would want to take an AG class that has to do with business. Like agriculture in business, which hints the name itself, is a AG business class that teaches you how to deal with business situations. Take for example from me this year my AG business class had a week of multiple little projects that revolves around making a resume and getting ready and prepped for a mock interview. 

   So all in all , you want to know you’re three steps on how to pick an AG class so in the long run you aren’t miserable throughout your wonderful yet dragful years of high school.

By Natasha Rooney Well it depends if you have older siblings that have shown before you.Because then you have the stuff what they showed.But if you are the first generation of showing an animal it depends if you want a lot of time and effort in this animal then do a pig or cow.But if you want minimum effort do a goat or sheep.If you do not have much money chickens and turkeys and rabbits.Are not much turkeys and chickens and rabbits are not as expensive and time taken. Shows can be very competitive at times but some can be very easy also.When just starting out rabbits are great additions to any homestead. They are a great meat source, cost very little to feed, and take up very little space.They can be fed store bought feed, fodder, extra veggies from the garden, weeds and grass clippings, and hay. Rabbits are also great for your garden because they produce some of the most amazing fertilizer.Rabbits do usually require hutches. They can be built for very little cost or purchased. Some choose to let their rabbits free range in a bunny tractor for protection.You may also choose to raise your rabbits in a colony setting.Their housing obviously has many options that can cost as little or as much as you choose.Chickens are commonly raised farm animals because they are multipurpose animals. They are a great source of eggs,meat,and fertilizer.Chickens requires about 4 square feet of space per hen in the coop.Chickens require a covered area to stay dry, fresh water.Chickens will eat almost anything.You can feed them weeds,store bought feed.Cleanliness in their coop must be a priority in order to keep healthy chickens.A meat source,great for dairy.If you are looking for a dairy source but don’t have a lot of acreages a goat is the way to go.Goats will feed on they love hay, vegetables, and also store bought feed.Pigs have a bad reputation for smell and messiness. In reality,pigs are clean farm animals.The smell factor will also not be an issue because the more you move them the less they smell.They are obviously a great meat source.However, being such large animals they do They require a pin with strong fencing. They are very strong farm animals and can escape if they put their mind to it.Cows are a large animal and they require a large amount of space.One cow needs around an acre to graze.They are a great source for milk and meat. However, because of the amount of space they take up, it is fair to say that a cow is not right for everyone.There is also a lot of danger to owning a cow.They need a large water source, a barn for winter with a large supply of hay to keep them fed, and shade for hot summer days while they are out in the pasture.

By Ashlyn Klaus Many organic technologies have been used for thousands of years to make sustainable agriculture that conserves soil, water, energy, and biological resources. However, there are now conventional ways of farming that question the methods of organic farming. The difference between organic farming and conventional farming is that conventional farming relies on chemicals pesticides to fight pests and weeds, as well as provide plant nutrition in the form of chemical fertilizers. Where organic farming relies on natural principles like composting and biodiversity instead. And although organic farming seems to be safer for the environment, conventional farmers are able to mass produce their crops and sell them to consumers at a much lower price than organic farmers can offer. Conventional framing also produces an increased crop yield with more fruitful crops. The biggest downside of this mass production is that the use of chemicals can cause an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, soil erosion, water pollution, and sometimes leads to a threat to human health. These factors lead many to believe that organic farming is the best option for consumers and the environments in which they live. Organic farming also has a smaller carbon footprint, conserves and builds soil health, replenishes ecosystems for clean water and air, leaves no chemical residue, has higher soil organic matter content, and has lower nutrient losses (nitrogen leaching, nitrous oxide emission, and ammonia emissions). In conclusion, each one of these methods  has its own disadvantages and its benefits, which is why the topic has caused so much controversy in the field of agriculture. In other words, it is up to the individual consumer, or farmer, to decide which method is best based on their own beliefs about how they want to impact others as well as the environment around them and how they want it to impact themselves.

In the world we live in today, we see new advancements in technology every day. One very famous and controversial advancements are GMOs. But what are GMOs? Simply put, the acronym ‘GMO’ stands for genetically modified organism. Therefore, a GMO is any living being, plant, or animal whose genetic material has been altered for any number of reasons. In the field of agriculture, GMOs are generally created to enhance the production of food. For example, a beef producer might decide to change the DNA material of his or her best cattles’ offspring to get a calf that is resistant to certain diseases, or a farmer might decide to genetically modify the corn in their field to get a crop that produces twice as much husks that are 10% bigger than the previous. Basically, it is technology that is big enough to change the entire face of agricultural farming and our knowledge of just how much our food has changed since agriculture became a means of life and business.

Even though GMOs are often in the news today, they have been around for a bit longer than recent generations may know. In the most definitive definition of the term ‘genetically modified organism,’ these crops have actually been around since the mid-1990s. When this reached the people of this country, a big debate has arisen. And that is whether or not GMOs should even be a reality. Of course, a person will believe what they want to when it comes to things like whether or not these organisms will be harmful to the environment; but it doesn’t hurt to understand both sides of it. On one hand, there are concerns about the possible health or environmental consequences, such as the development of a crop that is resistant to the insects that feed primarily on that specific crop. Though this may seem like an upside, it could end up being a downside as this might cause an area’s environment to lose too many insects and therefore upset the natural food chain.

On the other hand, by taking the risk of unknown consequences, using this practice could ultimately solve (or at least help for a while), the issue of hunger amongst the rapidly growing populations of the world. At the moment, the crops grown worldwide do provide a steady income of food for everyone able to afford it. However, it is estimated that by 2050, only about 30 years from now, there will be so many people that if the rate of output of crops stay roughly the same, there will not be enough food for those in the future. However, if GMO research is furthered right now and the human population is able to understand these plants more, then it is entirely possible to keep this crisis from becoming as overwhelmingly problematic as it’s expected to become. Furthermore, if GMOs are used, it could even be used to meet this problem head-on and prevent it from even occuring.

However, this is all in theory, of course. More research is needed on these crops and animals before anyone can really decide whether or not these genetically modified organisms are a good thing or not.

When you are trying to decide which Ag class to take next in your high school career I believe the most important thing to focus on is what is the most interesting to you and what will help your future career as well. I think it is a good idea as a freshman to obviously take Principles of Ag because you can get sort of a overview of all the Ag classes you will be able to take the next few years.  Also I think taking a shop class your freshman year is a good idea as well. Most of the shop classes are very similar as the Ag classes and are often taught by the same teacher. These introduction classes will open the door for different courses beyond the introductory level class. Like I said earlier I think it is best to follow your interest and follow your career path. What makes the agriculture classes so fun and enjoyable is the fact that they are teaching you stuff that interests you and you have a passion for. This is why you should take the particular courses that spark an interest or curiosity, you will end up being a more attentive student and enjoy the class more. Another thing you need to factor in is if you are planning on going into a agriculture career or field. If the answer is yes, you should do your best to figure out what that career will be in and take classes accordingly. That a way you will get to see if that is something you would really enjoy to do after high school or college. If you are more of a hands on kind of person and enjoy working on projects do not forget about the shop classes. They can teach you skills that will stick with you for the rest of your life and can always come in handy. Overall take the classes that are the most intriguing and can benefit your career plan as well.

Every spring, FFA members seemingly disappear from classrooms across the nation, but not in vain. These active members are competing in Career Development Events, more commonly known as CDEs to your average FFA member. These competitive events develop individual responsibility, foster teamwork and promote communication while recognizing the value of ethical competition and individual achievement. By competing against other FFA chapters across your area, the state, and sometimes the nation, students are encouraged to hone their skills in order be successful in their respective events. As students develop their skills they learn more about different career options that agriculture can offer.

For example, I have competed in the Livestock Judging competition for the past few years, learning about ideal animal traits in livestock. Through my training in identifying ideal production animal traits, for both breeding and market animals, I have developed the skills that would be necessary on a ranch to determine quality of livestock that is inside of a heard. Without CDE competitions I would have never had the opportunity to study livestock traits and characteristics, and use my hard earned knowledge to best other FFA members.

Though I have competed in Livestock judging competitions during my time in the FFA, there are many CDE options for students who have all kinds of interests that span the field of agriculture. Competitions like Horse Evaluation, Dairy Cattle Evaluation, and Poultry Evaluation all follow the same idea as livestock judging, just in different production animals. Other competitions such as Veterinary Science, and Meats Evaluation present students with problems that are unique to those careers. Competitions like those are extremely beneficial to students as it shows them what they could expect if they pursued a career in the field. Furthermore, competitions such as Ag Sales, and Marketing plan, create a simulated scenario for students to experience exactly what it is like to prepare and present a business style presentation, in the same situation as someone in those professions.

Overall, Career Development Events are extremely beneficial to agricultural education, as it does more than a classroom ever could for a student. CDEs are just another reason FFA students are miles ahead of their peers.

by Kayla Seale Many people believe that the FFA is just cows, plows, and sows. They believe that this organization is not the National FFA Organization and rather the Future Farmers of America. However, these accusations about this organization could not be any less true. The FFA is a place where kids can learn to express themselves through speaking events or even judging events. As all good things must come to an end, these activities within the organization end when graduation day comes. After graduation, the members of this great organization go onto many different paths, including college.

Going to college can be a big expense, and often it can cost a lot for adolescents to pay for their schooling. Many people rely on scholarships to help lessen the burden the cost of college. FFA is a great organization that gives a variety of different scholarship opportunities. This National FFA organization alone offers $2.7 million in scholarships that are awarded to deserving candidates based off of their experience in the organization. Additionally, many major shows and state associations. The scholarships awarded through FFA are much greater than any other organization in the United States.

The fact is that college is expensive, and many organizations and do not offer scholarship opportunities. Most people think that athletic scholarships are the only way to pay for college, however this is not the case. In fact, a larger percentage of kids get a scholarship from FFA associated programs than from athletic scholarships. Athletic scholarships are hard to come by, and FFA scholarships are more abundant.

High school students should consider taking agriculture education courses and being enrolled in FFA because it gives them a wide variety of opportunities that prepare them for college. All of these experiences gained in FFA then go to help students gain scholarships to help pay for college. Scholarships are extremely helpful in paying for college, and it is great that the FFA can give back to students that may continue to help in growth of the agricultural industry.

In conclusion, the FFA is a wonderful organization that gives many opportunities to its members. It also provides scholarship funds for many deserving students. Any student that is looking ahead for college should consider becoming an FFA member. Scholarships are just one aspect of this wonderful organization. The National FFA organization and all the lower state organizations are truly a great experience and time investment for all of its members.

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Hey Y’all! I’m Megan Day, with the China Spring FFA! Last year, I was part of the entomology CDE team. Anytime I think of CDE teams or contests, I remember a former area contest. As the land team was getting off the bus, a new member was holding the box filled to the brim with papers and scantrons. Suddenly, everyone feels a HUGE gust of wind, and we see the new member drop the box and catch his hat from flying off his head. A bad move on his part. While he caught his hat, every paper, scantron, land sample, and towel went flying! As I look out the window, all I can see is the land team sprinting to catch their supplies as everyone on the bus throws their head back laughing. Later we find out that this land team did FANTASTIC at the contest, even though they lost a few scantrons in the process.

Are you part of the FFA but not involved? Are you looking for a fun activity that prepares you for the future? Want to be prepared for your career? Want to win? Want to get out of school? Want to make great memories like mine? Then join a CDE team! The FFA offers a variety of Career Development Events, and China Spring FFA offers 13 of these! Check out all those teams and our 3 NEW TEAMS!

Mr. Day coaches 5 teams, such as:

Land (practice Monday during 9th period)

Homesite (practice Monday during 9th period)

Entomology (practice Tuesday at 3:45)

Livestock (practice Monday at 4:30) and

Horse (practice Thursday at 3:45)

Mrs. Fewell coaches 4 teams, including:

Milk Quality (practice Monday at 3:45)

Vet Tech (practice Thursday at 3:45)

*Food Tech (practice Wednesday at 3:45) and

Farm Business Management (practice Tuesday at 3:45)

Ms. Prause coaches 2 teams, which are:

*Floriculture (practice Thursday at 3:45) and

*Nursery Landscape (practice Thursday at 3:45)

These teams have had a HUGE amount of success in the past, and the China Spring FFA is hoping for even more success in the future! CSFFA wants YOU to join a CDE team! Already this year CSFFA has had multiple high individuals in TWO DIFFERENT contests! Who knew that a chapter that is barely 6 years old could have so much success so quickly!?! And with 219 members, 2 agriculture science teachers, and a student teacher, China Spring FFA strives for and achieves success.

Last school year, the China Spring FFA set four goals for the Area VIII CDE contest. Those goals were: to take six teams to the Area contest, to have four teams qualify for their respective state contests, to have zero loss due to scantron errors, and to award pins to state qualifying team members. But guess what?! China Spring FFA achieved EVERY GOAL SET for the 2013-2014 school year!

Hey Y’all! This is Jennifer Stanley with the China Spring FFA bringing y’all some scholarship opportunities through the FFA!

Scholarships are a great way to help pay for college without getting buried in student loan debts like 60% of college graduates are. Former high school students across the nation have reported that being active in the FFA gave them access to scholarships that ended up paying for 70% of their college tuition! Be in the lucky 40% who don’t graduate college with student loans and apply for scholarships now!

The following scholarships are those that the due date has not passed yet:

Heart O’ Texas Fair Scholarship

Deadline MARCH 20,2015

The application can be found at the bottom of the scholarship page on the CSFFA website.

Texas Farm Bureau Scholarships

If you’re part of the Texas Farm Bureau Family, there are several scholarship opportunities available. The applications can be found by clicking the link on the scholarship page of the CSFFA website

McLennan County Go Texan Scholarship

This scholarship is open to graduating seniors from high schools in McLennan County and must be completed with all requested information and attachments for our consideration. (Any student that receives a Houston Go-Texan Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship is not eligible.) The application can be found at the bottom of the scholarship page of the CSFFA website.

Scholarships are valid for 2-year, 4 year or technical schools (TSTC).

Postmarked no later than Friday, March 6, 2015

For more scholarship opportunities visit texasffa.org and ffa.org!

Click here for access to the scholarship page

Hey y’all, Madie here! As we begin this rather unnaturally, bitter cold March, it’s time to start thinking about the latest fundraiser opportunity!

The China Spring FFA chapter will be selling Gourmet Nut products to raise funds for upcoming spring and summer travel expenses. This fundraiser will last from April 1st to April 16th. Be ready to pick up your forms toward the end of this month and listen to the morning announcements for updates.

While the fundraiser may be a month away, you can begin thinking about who to sell to and how to sell. The most ideal people to sell to is obviously your immediate family, such as your parents or your grandparents. Close family friends or neighborhoods are also excellent choices, but as you go around selling keep your personal safety in mind. Here’s some helpful tips to get you started and keep you safe!

Before we get into the tips of sales, just keep in mind how difficult it may be to connect with your consumers and how important it is to relate to them. When I worked at Journey’s Kidz in the Richland Mall, the first thing I was instructed to do was to find something about the customer to relate to, even if it was a lie. I’m not telling you lie to your customer, but if they’re wearing Corrals or have a Texas A&M shirt on, compliment them! It will ease the tension between the two of y’all and the sale will be almost guaranteed.

Also, If you’re the kind of salesperson that needs a challenge, Corey Ludwig has made the top sales for 3 years in a row! Challenge yourself to sell more than him and become the new top person in sales!

THE DOs and DON’Ts OF SELLING

Don’t sell to strangers (AKA door to door selling). Instead ask your parents/guardians to take the forms to their work places if you want to expand your sales.

Be mindful of who you’re selling to, don’t sell to someone who you know may not pay for their items. You don’t want to end up paying for someone else’s products they decided last minute they didn’t want!

Be respectful to your potential customers, don’t be rude and remember that they’re helping your cause SO REMEMBER YOUR BASIC MANNERS (please, thank you, yes sir/ma’am, etc.) Being polite and respectful can be the difference in making or breaking a sale.

As they’re looking through the product lists, explain what these proceeds will be used for so they’re not weary of a scam or useless means of their money. Don’t forget to mention why you’re there in the first place! State your cause, but respectfully.

Not everyone is going to buy the products you’re displaying to them, be prepared for rejection. Don’t push the customer, it is their money after all.

Make sure you’re audible, don’t mumble. Maintain eye contact, don’t appear timid. This is supposed to be a fun experience and you’re helping your FFA chapter at the same time!