“I believe in the future of agriculture, with a faith born not of words but of deeds – achievements won by the present and past generations of agriculturists; in the promise of better days through better ways, even as the better things we now enjoy have come to us from the struggles of former years.
I believe that to live and work on a good farm or to be engaged in other agricultural pursuits, is pleasant as well as challenging; for I know the joys and discomforts of agricultural life and hold an inborn fondness for those associations which, even in hours of discouragement I cannot deny.”
If you grew up on a farm or in an agricultural family, you've likely heard these words before. Maybe you even recited them yourself. These powerful words are from the FFA creed. Originally established in 1928 as the Future Farmers of America, this organization, now addressed as the National FFA Organization, offers unique opportunities for youth to get their hands dirty and educate themselves on agriculture.
Recently, an updated FFA charter was signed into law by President Trump. Because the National FFA Organization has a federal charter, updates must be approved by Congress. And these updates will lead to important organizational changes, and a renewed focus on agricultural education in schools. Whether you received your farming education hands-on or in an educational environment like a school, these updates will ensure that kids for years to come learn about the importance of farming and caring for the land.
Modernizations made in the bill will allow national FFA chapters to be more nimble and self-governing, while still maintaining a close connection with the federal Departments of Education and Agriculture. An emphasis on education will allow better instruction about careers in agriculture.