On Nov. 3, 24 FFA members from Clear Lake High School went on a trip to Mason City to the test plot. While there, they learned about what it was like to tend the plot.
Many people were involved in both the production of the plot as well as educating the students. The first half of the morning was spent teaching the students about current corn markets, how to conduct yield estimates and some of the agronomic challenges specific to that plot of land. Also during this time, students took turns riding in the combine and the tractor with the grain cart. This provided students with an opportunity to learn about the technology used in the harvesting process and some students even had the chance to try their hand at driving some of the equipment.
Once they were finished, the students made their way to the Olson building in preparation for lunch. Trae Hestness discussed how agriculture is not only a national industry, but an international one. An example that had been brought up was how countries in Asia will have our soybeans imported to them to help in the production of foods like tofu. Charlie Norris also spoke about the Farm Bureau and how students can benefit from the organization.
Also at lunch, students participated in round table discussions with a variety of professionals from across the agriculture industry. These people included: Pat Goedken, from Clear Lake Bank & Trust; Ryan Bormann, from Helena; Amy Fleming, from Sukup; Melissa Moretz, from First Citizens Bank; and Sarah Tweeten, from Iowa Corn. The professionals answered questions about their jobs, their education, the ag industry and more to help students learn more about possible career paths.
The day wrapped up with a visit from Jim Finstad with Frontier Labs. Students looked at soil maps from the plot and were taught about how management of the field changed depending on the data that was gathered. Finstad also helped students take soil samples using a soil probe and explained how the quality of the samples today could affect management practices used for years to come. For a quality sample, students gathered six to eight inches of good soil per sample. Eight samples are taken from each point in the field.
At the end of the day, the students walked away from the test plot with a new knowledge about the world of agriculture and everything that goes along with it. For many students, this is one of the only ways they will gain firsthand experience with farming and production agriculture.
Clear Lake FFA would like to extend a huge thank you to the following ag professionals for helping the test plot have another successful year: Charlie and Louise Norris, Todd Cash, Trae Hestness, Luci Sheriff, Andy Muff, Jim Finstad and the North Iowa Fair Board
