On September 27, 2023, South O’Brien FFA traveled to the district soils competition held at the Dordt University farm. This year’s team includes Brelee Rasmussen, Makenna Wallin, Reese Farquhar, and Abby Woodall. This is Brelee’s, Makenna’s, and Abby’s second year on the soils team but this is Reese’s first year. The team has helped Reese catch up and she has been doing very well in her first couple competitions.
Before the district competition, the team attended a soils workshop hosted by Iowa Lakes soils workshop, and have put in a lot of work to improve their skills and knowledge. Their hard work has paid off. The team earned the NW FFA District Champion honors, punching their ticket to the state competition.
Individually, Brelee was Champion, Reserve Champion went to Abby, Makenna placed 19th, and Reese 21st.
The State Soil Judging Competition will be held on October 21st at an Iowa State University Research Farm somewhere around Ames. The team has hopes of finishing in the top five so they can advance onto the national competition.
Brelee said she enjoyed the district competition, but is really excited for the state competition because she also enjoys meeting new people and having fun outside the competition. “I’ve learned so much from being on the soils team…not only about soil itself, but lessons and things that apply to everyday life. I have learned to have an open mind and be willing to try new things, to not be afraid to ask questions, make sure to listen when someone is trying to help you or explain something, don’t be afraid to be the last one done, talk to new people, and thank those who have helped you or have done something for your benefit. Lastly, always give 100% in whatever you do and work hard.” Brelee mentioned that FFA is something special that has created so many memories for her and it could do the same for everyone that gets involved.