Each year, Michigan Farm Bureau hosts the high school discussion meet contest sponsored by DTE Energy and the Michigan Foundation for Agriculture. High school FFA, 4-H, and Farm Bureau member dependents across the state are encouraged to compete with the purpose of building their public speaking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, networking with other high school students and industry professionals, and have the chance to win prize money towards their future goals.
We’re excited to 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: TBD
Registration opens for all regions Sept. 1 and closes one week prior to the regional-level competition. Each FFA chapter, 4-H club and county Farm Bureau can register up to three competitors.
Regional-level competitors will spend 20 minutes discussing any of the following topics:
- Agriculture is one of the most hazardous industries. 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 into meeting the needs of families in your community?
The top two competitors from each region will compete at the state competition, Dec. 1 during MFB’s State Annual Meeting in Grand Rapids. Regional topics will be repeated during the state-level opening round, with the final round addressing the following topic:
- Now more than ever, high school students have an abundance of in- and after-school engagement opportunities offered virtually and face-to-face. What best practices should organizations, such as county Farm Bureaus, 4-H and FFA consider when enticing students to participate in a club, workshop, camp, or team?
All regional competitors receive an appreciation gift for their participation. Competitors who place in their region will receive their prize at sign in during the state competition. The state runner-up will receive a $150 cash prize and plaque. The state winner will receive $250 and a plaque. All prizes are courtesy of DTE Energy and the Michigan Foundation for Agriculture.
Please refer to the Michigan Farm Bureau Discussion Meet resource page for the complete contest guide, resources to help in preparation for the competition, and past discussion meets.
For more information, contact Katie Eisenberger at [email protected].