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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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