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Ag students embrace high-tech solutions

Pullman, WALocal News

At the Washington FFA State Convention, Clarkston FFA students Chase Meyer, Brenna Keene, and Alex Wolf participated in the inaugural agriculture innovations career development event, focusing on high-tech solutions in farming. Keene led the use of Microsoft's FarmBeats crop sensors, which measure soil conditions to enhance agricultural efficiency. Meanwhile, Meyer navigated a drone through an obstacle course, planning to combine GIS mapping with drone technology in future studies. Wolf utilized manual control to operate a robot in the competition, where time constraints added pressure. Their preparation was hindered by a fire that closed their school shop for six weeks, leaving them with just two weeks to prepare.

Despite finishing in 12th place, Keene and Wolf are determined to improve for next year. Teacher Kalista Wales praised their bravery in embracing technological advancements in agriculture. The students represent a small but crucial segment of the population dedicated to feeding the world.

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Pullman, WALocal News

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Pullman, WALocal News

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Pullman, WALocal News

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.