Iowa State University Extension and Outreach along with Iowa Department of Natural Resources, will host an informational meeting concerning the presence of emerald ash borer (EAB), an exotic, destructive insect of ash trees. EAB now has been positively identified in five Iowa locations, most recently in Creston.

Mark Shour, Iowa State University Extension & Outreach Entomologist, says “These meetings are designed to provide helpful, usable information to prepare for one of the most destructive insects to hit the urban forest in decades.”

The meeting will be held from 6-to 7:30-pm January 9th, at the Supertel Inn & Conference Center (800 Laurel Street), in Creston. It is designed for those in the green industry, homeowners and others interested in the topic. There is no charge to attend, and pre-registration is not required. For more information call ISU Extension and Outreach – Union County at 641-782-8426.

Officials with the Atlantic FFA Chapter reported Thursday, that the organization sold a little more than $22,300 worth of fruit, meat, cheese, picked herring and other products during their annual fundraiser, which ran from late October through early November. All the proceeds go toward supporting the local FFA Chapter by helping members attend the National and State Conventions, and in the purchase for FFA Jackets for any member that wants one.

40 FFA members sold an average of $558 in products, with the top fruit salesperson being Haley Carlson. She earned $2,018. Calley Klindt sold $1,405…Adam Freund, $1,081…Kristin Johnk $1,014, and Tyler Christensen sold $962 worth of products. Atlantic FFA President Wyatt Saeughling said in a press release that he was “Glad to see we accomplished our goal of more than $20,000.” He said he hopes the underclassmen continue to sell more fruit, so “The Chapter will be able to provide funding for upcoming FFA activities.”

Atlantic FFA Advisor Eric Miller said the Chapter members exceeded his goal and gives the group a “Great start” for next year. If you did not have an FFA member contact you and you would like to be added to list for next year, contact an Atlantic FFA member or FFA Advisor Eric Miller, at the Atlantic High School.

You can follow the group on Twitter, at www.twitter.com/AtlanticFFA.