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FFA names the American Stars

L to R: Zahradka, Coddington, Maltbie & Wippel

American Star in Agriscience, Justin Zahradka, Park River FFA, North Dakota.

Growing up, Zahradka was intrigued by livestock, tractors and crops. His interest in crops judging continued to grow and he agreed to participate in the North Dakota Cover Crop Trial. His responsibilities included providing the land and cattle, helping select the seed mix, planting the crop, weighing the cattle and assisting in tours. His cover crop was one of the first research of its kind in his area. That research with cover crops has changed how Zahradka farms. He says rather than working against nature, he is now adopting a system of biotic farming. Biotic farming revolves around all living things rather than just the crop being grown and focuses on a more integrated, biological way to address problems and reduce inputs. He is currently studying crop and weed sciences at North Dakota State University.

American Star in Agricultural Placement, Eric Coddington, Montello FFA, Wisconsin.

Coddington developed a strong interest in crop production, particularly raising corn. As he grew older, he began working on certifications and more on the farm. Encouraged by his father, Coddington began studying corn production. Soon he was working on test plots and researching. Today, the 21 year old is studying agronomy and agribusiness at Iowa State University in addition to working alongside his father at Peppermill Farms, where they raise 1,400 acres of corn, 500 acres of alfalfa, 300 acres of soybeans and 50 head of Angus beef cattle.

American Star in Agribusiness, William Maltbie, Burlington FFA, Oklahoma.

When the 22 year old began his first agricultural education class, he just had a push mower and a few other pieces of lawn equipment he used to take care of his neighbors’ lawns. Before long, his FFA advisor suggested he turn that into a business. Today, Maltbie Mowing is a full-service lawn care business that serves more than 50 clients in six communities. From a turf-grass management aspect, Maltbie provides clients with customized mowing solutions. In addition to mowing, he conducts soil testing and grass analysis. Starting his own agribusiness led Maltbie to pursue a degree in agribusiness with an option in plant and soil sciences from Oklahoma State University.

American Star Farmer, Austin Wippel, Westfall FFA, Ohio.

Wippel raises 65 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat and alfalfa hay in rotation. Between the hay and straw, he handles an average of 23,500 small square bales of hay and straw per year.  His business has allowed him to see the importance of money management, equipment purchases and marketing strategies. In addition, Wippel says his involvement with FFA has shaped him as a person and continues to motivate him every day. Currently studying agronomy at The Ohio State University, he plans to graduate in 2017 and continue to diversify his business.