National Land Judging Contest

by Hals Beard

     The North Central FFA Chapter from Lebeau has returned home after participating in the 46th annual National Land and Range Judging Contest in Oklahoma City. The group competed in the nation's top land judging event at a site near Oklahoma City.

     Members of the North Central FFA Chapter tested their individual and team skills against 117 other land judging teams and over 400 students from 35 states across the nation by evaluating land characteristics like topsoil, subsoil, slope, and plant life. In the FieldThey were also required to recommend treatment to improve the land's adaptability for certain purpose like producing crops, raising cattle or building homes.

     Team members included Matthew Pickett, Chad Baham, Joe Ardoin, Steven Jackson, and alternate, Rusty Guillory. Team coach and advisor is Mr. Hals Beard. The team finished 59th in team ranking 106 out of 118 teams and Matthew scored team high, ranking 106 of over 400.

     While in Oklahoma City, the team did many extra activities. They visited Shepler's Western Wear, one of the countries largest western stores, the Cowboy Hall of Fame, the Omniplex and Kirkpatrick Natural Science Museum and the site of the Oklahoma City Bombing. Also, members were treated to an evening at Outback Steakhouse, bowling and an afternoon at Celebration Station. Much fun and learning was had by all. Team members seemed excited about a return trip for future teams.