By Alex Griebel – South O’Brien FFA Reporter
The South O’Brien FFA Soils team competed in the State Soils Evaluation contest hosted by Iowa State University. This year the pits were dug in Iowa State’s research fields east of the ISU 450 farm.
A total of 30 teams competed with South O’Brien placing 8th with a Gold Rating. South O’Brien FFA Advisor Eric Kumm noted, “I know the team was shooting for a top five placing to advance to nationals, however they were happy to get into the top ten. I myself am very proud of the improvement that took place with this team through the hard work they put in studying and preparing for this competition. They really improved their test scores, but they always seem to find some tricky pits. We learned from the experience and will use that knowledge next year to work to improve.”
The South O’Brien team included: Caden Wittrock, Gabe Moermond, Austin Negus, and Will Stout. Gabe Moermod placed in the top ten bringing home 7th place individually. Gabe stated “ It was a fun experience and I enjoyed being on a team with my friends. The contest was very difficult for all of us. The pits were a lot different, and a lot more challenging than the ones we are used to around here.”