Three members of the Camden High School FFA chapter recently put their knowledge of poultry to the test against their peers from across the state, and proved that they could “talk turkey” - and other birds - with the best of the best. Students Mary Hall, Matthew Albrecht, and Kayla Winn competed in the New York State FFA Poultry Evaluation Career Development Event held at the Great New York State Fair on Friday, August 23rd.
A Career Development Event is a competitive exercise that is designed to build knowledge and skills in an agriculture-relevant area, while also promoting critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and problem solving among its participants.
In the case of the Poultry Evaluation CDE, students were tasked with evaluating chickens, eggs, and finished products, along with providing justification for their decisions. They also must identify poultry parts, do a carcass grading exercise, and complete a written general knowledge exam. The contest is an intensive experience that lasts about two hours from start to finish.
Camden sent its competitors to participate as individuals in the senior (Grades 7-12) division.
In the individual standings, freshman Mary Hall placed fifth, sophomore Matthew Albrecht was tenth, and freshman Kayla Winn placed 13th.
The group was led by High School FFA advisor Erin Curtis Szalach.
“I am so proud of the effort these students put into practicing for this CDE,” She said. “This was one of their first times competing in a state CDE and they rocked it! They are already EGG-cited for next year and have set great goals for themselves individually and as a team!”
