What bovine stomach compartment functions like a human’s? What country leads in the exports of cut flowers? Name 3 confined spaces on the farm? On August 12th, the local branch of Young Leaders in Agriculture will test their knowledge against other Illinois teams, answering questions such as these for a chance to win a state title.
The 11th Annual Young Leader Agri-Quiz Bowl contest will be held Ag Day, Tuesday, August 12th at the Illinois State Fair. Competing among 36 teams from counties throughout Illinois, Shannon Carroll, Jake Lieb, Josh Lieb and Scott McFarland will test their knowledge in subject areas of agriculture and the Farm Bureau. Veterans of this event, these four have made up the Piatt County Young Leader team for half a decade. The Piatt County division of Young Leaders has participated in the Agri-Quiz Bowl contest at the state fair for about 10 years, placing third in the state in 2006.
The Illinois Farm Bureau Young Leaders in Agriculture meet monthly and is made up of Illinois Farm Bureau members ranging in age from 18 to 35. The purpose, as defined in the strategic plan, is to increase membership and public awareness by promoting the Young Leader Program and its activities, provide opportunities to young people on the county and state level with agricultural interests for personal and professional development, promote a family-oriented farm lifestyle by addressing issues vital to the individual’s and the families’ well being, promote and education young leaders/ farmers about governmental processes and involvement, and provide educational tools to improve net income. Persons interested in learning more about the Young Leaders in Agriculture program should contact the Piatt County Farm Bureau at 217.762.2128.
Jake Lieb, a 26 year old 5th generation farmer, has been a Young Leader for four years. “I believe it is important for young people to get involved in their agricultural interests. In this ever-changing world, the city is spreading to the country. We, as young leaders, need to plan ahead and work with the community to prepare for the challenges of our future now, not when the problems arise.”
Scott McFarland has been a member of the Young Leaders since 2000 and appreciates the networking with others in agriculture industries. McFarland owns a lawn and landscape business, which in his mind is all about maintaining “urban farms.” Though he has been farming for a local family for 10 years, this year marks the first time McFarland will be farming on his own- something he has worked for his whole life.
August 12th is also “Monticello Day” at the Illinois State Fair. Located in the Hometown Pride event tent, Monticello will be on display, representing all aspects of the community: Government, business, tourism, recreation, education and industry. Watch for more developing information on this event in the weeks to come! Contact Callie with the City of Monticello, at 217.762.2583 for questions on this event.
