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Texas Agriculture Archive

March 7, 2003

College students target of
new Farm Bureau contest

The Texas Farm Bureau Young Farmer and Rancher Committee will sponsor a Collegiate Discussion Meet focusing on current agricultural issues on April 26, 2003. The Discussion Meet is designed to simulate a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each committee member.

"This Discussion Meet is designed to help develop the ability of agriculture's future leaders to effectively solve problems through group discussions, while emphasizing the need to acquire accurate and current information," said Kenneth Dierschke, president of Texas Farm Bureau. "This is not a debate, but rather an exercise in cooperative problem solving with an open floor."

Students from 23 Texas colleges and universities have been invited to participate.

"The students will discuss the Farm Bureau's developing role in contemporary farming issues," Dierschke continued. "These young people will learn the importance of discussing these issues from all sides, while gaining self-confidence about their public speaking abilities."

The collegiate meet will concentrate on four areas of discussion: the Farm Bureau's role in the issues surrounding bio-engineered crops and animals, the future of energy options facing agriculture in the 21^st century, American farmers' options in implementing environmental practices while ensuring agricultural viability, and the agricultural economy's role in national security and defense.

A $1,000 cash award and plaque will be presented to the winner of the contest. The three other finalists will receive cash awards of $200 each. A $500 cash award and a traveling trophy will be presented to the school of the winning contestant.

Texas Farm Bureau will pay travel expenses for the winner to attend Texas Farm Bureau's annual meeting in Waco in December of 2003. Participation gifts will be provided to all contestants.

Eligible contestants include college students who are 18 to 35 years of age as of January 31, 2004 and are currently pursuing a degree in agriculture or are studying an agricultural curriculum. Members of the TFB State YF&R Advisory Committee are not eligible to participate. Professional speakers or those who have received a fee or honorarium for public speaking are not eligible to participate. The deadline for entry is Friday, March 28, 2003. Information and entry forms can be obtained by calling 254-751-2286.