FFA Today: Environmental CDE Students Put Their Skills to the Test

Kate Walker has the story, highlighting how students are learning to protect and preserve natural resources while gaining valuable technical and teamwork skills.

INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (RFD-TV) — The Environmental and Natural Resources Career Development Event (CDE) is one of the most hands-on FFA competitions, giving members real-world experience in soil, water, and ecosystem management.

For FFA Today, Kate Walker shows us how the next generation of environmental stewards is hard at work through the National FFA Organization, highlighting how students are learning to protect and preserve natural resources while gaining valuable technical and teamwork skills.

Related Stories
The Illinois Farm Bureau shows how hemp can regenerate the earth and boost rural economies.
Liam Wade, a North Pole High School senior and the 2025-2026 Alaska FFA State Vice President, isn’t just dreaming about farming in one of the country’s most extreme environments — he’s doing it.
These produce staples last longer and are incredibly versatile, whether cooking from scratch, planning meals, or building a more budget-friendly kitchen routine. These are six fruits and vegetables that stay fresh for weeks.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to discuss seasonal affective disorder, winter mental health, and practical strategies for maintaining well-being in rural communities.
FWSSR Communications Director Matt Brockman discusses the event’s competitions, safety preparations, and family-friendly activities during the opening weekend.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
CLAAS Senior Vice President for the Americas Region Eric Raby joined us to preview the new docuseries “CLAAS: Made for More,” premiering tonight at 9 PM ET only on RFD-TV.
Dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, her experience at the signing, and what’s next for her family and farm.
The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
Analysts say a Supreme Court decision on tariffs could reshape protein markets, strain U.S.-China trade, and force farmers to rethink global demand strategies.