season

The Black River FFA Chapter has officially kicked off its 2025 growing season, thanks to

the hard work of its members and the generous support of several local agricultural

businesses. Over the past few months, our chapter has made several important

improvements to our school’s land lab in preparation for a productive and educational

season.

During the winter, our field was planted with rye as a cover crop to protect the soil,

improve its structure, and reduce erosion. A few weeks ago, we also took action to

further manage soil health by replanting all three grass waterways. These waterways

play a vital role in controlling erosion and directing water flow more effectively

throughout the field.

Last week, Nutrien Ag Solutions generously assisted with the burn down of the rye

cover crop, helping us transition the field for spring planting. This week, A.M. Grain

Farms stepped in to help us prepare the ground, and Gordon Farms followed by no-

tilling soybeans into the field. We are especially grateful to Duling Ag Services for

donating the soybean seed for this year’s crop.

Our chapter’s land lab is more than just a field—it’s a hands-on classroom that allows

students to apply what they learn in agricultural education to real-world farming

practices. Thanks to the support and partnership of our local ag community, we are able

to continue providing valuable learning experiences to students while caring for the land

in a sustainable way.

We are excited to see the progress of this year’s soybean crop and look forward to a

successful growing season ahead. On behalf of the Black River FFA Field Committee,

thank you to everyone who has helped make this possible.

By Caleb Howard, Black River FFA Field Committee Member