Future Farmers a necessity to Hoosier economy, Baird says
District 44 State Rep. Jim Baird (R-Greencastle) addressed the Indiana House to recognize national Future Farmers of America (FFA) Week which began on Saturday.
"Indiana has a long, storied history in providing a bountiful harvest from the heartland, and the FFA is dedicated to furthering the tradition," Rep. Baird said in addressing fellow legislators at the Statehouse on Monday.
"Future generations of farmers face the demands of a growing population, and this organization prepares them to rise up and meet those challenges by instructing and developing its members for different career paths."
With nearly 560,000 members throughout the country, the FFA seeks to raise awareness of agriculture through its members -- especially highlighted on FFA Week through events and activities.
Having members in grades 7-12 that belong to one of 7,498 local chapters, the FFA trains individuals in leadership and personal growth through agricultural education.
Recently, two Putnam County students were elected to leadership positions in the FFA, State President Cameron Mann of Cloverdale High School and State Secretary Katherine Spencer of South Putnam. The two leaders were elected to those honored positions by demonstrating outstanding leadership qualities in the agriculture industry," Rep. Baird noted.
"It's encouraging to see these two young adults being leaders in our community, and I am eager to see the impact they make moving forward," Rep. Baird said.
"I appreciate the FFA's focus on training the next generation in agriculture," the second-term state legislator added. "Through FFA's incredible mission, young adults have a chance to learn important agricultural skills that could lead to many future opportunities and careers boosting the Hoosier economy."
Rep. Baird represents all of Putnam County, along with portions of Clay, Morgan, Owen and Parke counties.