The Agricultural Technology and Mechanical Systems CDE helps students develop their technical skills and knowledge and their ability to work with others to solve complex problems.
The National FFA Agriscience Fair recognizes student researchers studying the application of agricultural scientific principles and emerging technologies in agricultural enterprises. The agriscience fair is for middle and high school students. Participation begins at the local level and progresses to state and national levels.
The Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management CDE helps students develop skills in dairy cattle selection and herd management. Participants evaluate the cattle’s physical characteristics, explain their various classes and analyze a herd record as a team.
Through participation in the Dairy Cattle Handlers Activity, students learn to work with others in a way that is cooperative, courteous and helpful.
The Floriculture CDE requires students to identify plants, judge flower arrangements and solve problems. Participants also demonstrate skills in flower arranging, propagation and the preparation of floral and foliage products for sale.
In the Horse Evaluation CDE, students evaluate and rank horses based on breed characteristics, conformation and performance. As a team, students cooperatively solve problems related to equine selection, management, nutrition and production.
Participants in the Livestock Evaluation CDE cooperatively classify livestock as “keep” or “cull” for market and breeding purposes based on physical characteristics and records.
Participants in the Milk Quality and Products CDE demonstrate their knowledge about the quality production, processing, distribution, promotion and marketing of milk and dairy foods.
The Nursery⁄Landscape CDE test students skills in aspects of maintaining landscape plants and related products, evaluating equipment and services, and landscape design.
The Poultry Evaluation CDE test students’ skills in the production, processing, and marketing of chickens, turkeys, processed poultry products and eggs.