Farmers can help grow FFA

FFA chapters provide valuable learning experiences for youth interested in the agriculture industry.  Through involvement in FFA, students develop the skills to become leaders in their communities.  Simply put, today?s FFA youth members are the future of the industry.  

Now, farmers in Jefferson County have the opportunity to plant the seed that helps grow their local FFA chapters.

Through America?s Farmers Grow CommunitiesSM, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund, farmers can win $2,500 for their favorite community nonprofit.  Last year, winning farmers directed $490,000 to 196 FFA chapters across the country.  Last year, Jefferson County Don Wasson won funds for the Fairfield FFA Chapter.

The program is part of a broad commitment by the Monsanto Fund to invest in farm communities, in order to highlight the important contributions farmers make every day to society.  Farmers can apply online at www.growcommunities.com, or call 877-267-3332 to apply by phone.

Farmers, age 21 and over, who are actively engaged in farming a minimum of 250 acres of corn, cotton, and/or soybeans, or 40 acres of open field vegetables, or at least 10 acres of tomatoes, peppers and/or cucumbers grown in protected culture are eligible. Farmers can enter now through Nov. 30.  The program is open to all qualifying farmers, and no purchase is necessary in order to enter or win.  Farmers who meet the eligibility requirements may enter regardless of previous participation.  One winner will be drawn from each of the participating counties, and the Monsanto Fund will announce winning farmers and recipient organizations in January.