The Pioneer Valley FFA Soil and Land Evaluation Team swept the soils contest at Merced College’s Career Development Event (CDE) Field Day on Saturday, March 16.
The Panthers placed 1st and 2nd high team. They also had representation in the top individuals for this contest. Placing team members are as follows:
Luke Zaragoza – 1st High Individual
Hannah Limon – 2nd High Individual
Eldaine Estacio – 3rd High Individual
Sebastian Pinon – 5th High Individual

Luke Zaragoza states, “having success in this competition allows for us students to understand the importance of one of one of the most important natural resources–our soil.”

Coach Tyler Dickinson added, “students learn about best management practices pertaining to soil management and engage in experiential learning for soil sustainability and erosion prevention, a career pathway that is more important now than ever before.”The Soil and Land Evaluation CDE seeks to effectively make students aware of the value of soils in production agriculture, environment and society, Dickinson added.

Panther Land Judging Team members are preparing for State Finals at Fresno State University and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo later this spring.