DOYLE, TN – The David Crockett Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter took home first place honors in the Tennessee FFA State Forestry competition last month. The competition was held at Camp Clements in Doyle. Sixteen FFA chapters from each of Tennessee’s three regions participated. 

David Crocket FFA of David Crockett High School was represented by team members: Kenzie Bastian, Brett Barnett, Chloe Ford, and Kylee Phalen. The chapter’s advisors are Ryan Arnett and Josh Conger. David Crockett will represent Tennessee at the National FFA Convention in October and compete against other state winning teams for the national title. 

The purpose of the Forestry CDE is to stimulate student interest and to promote forestry instruction in the agricultural education curriculum. Forestry competitors completed a team activity, cooperative test, general knowledge exam, forestry issues interview, tree identification exercise, equipment identification exercise, and forestry application practicums. This event provides recognition for those who have demonstrated skills and competencies as a result of forestry instruction. 

The winner of the Western Region was the Dresden FFA Chapter. The Middle Region was won by the Bedford County FFA Chapter, who also placed third overall. 

FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. Nationally, there are 610,240 FFA members, aged 12-21. The Tennessee FFA Association is comprised of more than 13,000 members from 214 high school chapters, seven middle school chapters, and eight collegiate chapters across the state of Tennessee.

Photo caption: David Crockett FFA members waiting eagerly to begin the State Forestry competition at Camp Clements (L to R): Kenzie Bastian, Brett Barnett, Kylee Phalen, and Chloe Ford.