Ag Ambassador Competition

Published: 2020
By Emily Standley

In 2020, Fergus-Petroleum MSU Extension established a new program that combines youth development with agricultural advocacy. As part of the 75th Montana Winter Fair, held in Lewistown, this youth competition allowed students from across the state to showcase communication skills and their passion for agriculture. Any high school student in Montana was eligible to participate, and agriculture ambassador participants were tasked with addressing the broad topic of 'The Economic Impact of Agriculture in Your Community.' Each student identified a focus area within that topic, and created materials designed to inform the general public, while also highlighting their skills using a variety of media. Each students’ submission consisted of six components. Participants showcased writing skills through a newspaper article and demonstrated creativity through radio spots and visual displays. They created a social media marketing plan to illustrate their needs assessment abilities, and practiced verbal communication through an interview and prepared speech. In its inaugural year, the Ag Ambassador program had six competitors from six different counties across Montana. Students tackled a wide variety of complex topics including local foods, agro-forestry, removal of lands from production agriculture, wildlife-agriculture interactions, and more. Generous sponsorships allowed awards of $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place. A supportive group of local volunteers helped score the event, and provided resounding feedback that the future of agriculture looks bright in the hands of these capable young leaders. After a successful first year, the Ag Ambassador program will continue as part of the Montana Winter Fair, and is already growing. For 2021, the topic is 'Diversity in Montana Agriculture,' and though they may have to compete virtually, we are excited to see what this next group of future leaders brings to the table.