5 of 6 regional High School Discussion Meets around the corner

Each year, Michigan Farm Bureau hosts the High School Discussion Meet program for high school FFA, 4-H, and Farm Bureau member dependents across the state. The purpose of the Discussion Meet is to build students’ public speaking, collaboration and problem-solving skills, while exposing them to the agriculture industry’s largest challenges and the organization of Michigan Farm Bureau.

We are excited to officially announce details of the 2021 in-person regional and state level competitions:

• Region 1 — 5 p.m. Nov. 10 at Vicksburg High School 
• Region 2 — 4 p.m. Nov. 11 at Milan High School
• Region 3 — 11 a.m. Nov. 11 at Delta College
• Region 4 — 9 a.m. Sept. 25 at Byron High School
• Region 5 — 6 p.m. Nov. 9 at Ravenna High School
• Region 6 — 6 p.m. Oct. 27 at Bay Arenac Career Center

Registration is due one week prior to the regional level competition date. Each FFA chapter, 4-H club, and county Farm Bureau can register up to three competitors by completing the information here.

Contestants will address one of three potential questions at the meets:

• Agriculture is hazardous. What can organizations like 4-H, FFA and your county Farm Bureau do to create a more preventative, rather than reactive, approach to farm safety in our communities?
• As the world population increases, so will the need for renewable resources. At the local and state level, how can you and your chapter play a role in helping the people you influence understand and take steps towards renewable energy practices in their everyday lives?
• COVID revealed several cracks in our food supply chain and shed new light on how much families rely on our schools to provide well-balanced meals. What can you and your group do assist in meeting the needs of families in your community?

One week prior to the competition, competitors will find out their first-round topic. To assist in preparation, students may download a topic worksheet, read through the competition guide as well as watch examples of past discussion meets on the MFB Discussion Meet page or contact Katie Eisenberger.