Ever wonder what it’s like to be a farmer today? Over the next 50 years, farmers will need to produce more food than has been produced in the last 10,000 years, combined. In order to educate youth about these agriculture issues and topics, the Monsanto Research Farm in Atlantic, hosted an FFA Field Day on June 3rd. All FFA chapters in southwest Iowa were invited to attend the day of fun and farming.

The field day, sponsored by Asgrow® and DEKALB® brands, taught FFA students from Griswold, Clarinda, Southwest Valley and Glenwood High Schools about soil science, insect and weed identification, and other agronomic topics to better prepare them for upcoming FFA competitions. Nancy Faber, district sales manager for Monsanto, said “Our FFA Field Day is a great way to interact with our next generation of agricultural leaders.We went over information to help prepare the students for their upcoming FFA Career Development Events (CDE) contests. I wish the best of luck to all the FFA students at their upcoming events.”

FFA students also had the opportunity to experience a hands-on safety simulator that teaches the importance of safe driving. Students sat behind the wheel of a car and “drove” through various environments using the high-tech Drive Square driving simulator. After putting on special glasses and navigating through various routes, students were shown the dangers of distracted driving.

Monsanto says it has been a proud supporter of the National FFA for the past 50 years. FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

(Press Release)