TUSCULUM, TENN. (RFD News) — Some FFA members are taking agriculture beyond the classroom.
In East Tennessee, Dakin Thompson is focusing on agricultural fire prevention, helping farmers protect their livestock and property.
Thompson is gaining hands-on experience by volunteering with the Tusculum Volunteer Fire Department.
“My SAE is on agricultural fire prevention and safety. It’s about preventing fires in agricultural settings, and putting safety plans in place to help livestock not get hurt and people to be more safe.”
When visiting farms, Thompson says he walks producers through potential risks and reviews their emergency plans.
He uses a checklist to identify fire hazards and helps farmers think through evacuation plans in case of a barn fire.
In addition to his safety work, Thompson is also active in FFA through dairy competitions and community service.
For Thompson, it’s about more than awards. He says his goal is to make a difference and help keep his community safe.
This week in Washington, National FFA members are advocating for the agriculture industry on Capitol Hill for National Ag Day.
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FFA Program Specialist Ashli Weinrich highlights how the FFA Next Gen Conference helps ag students explore career opportunities and build skills for the future.
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Tennessee Ag in focus: Commissioner Holt shares his farm economy outlook, the TNFB honors a cotton legacy, and TN 4-H and FFA leaders discuss support for the next generation of agriculture in Tennessee.
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National FFA Southern Region Vice President T. Wayne William talks about Wear Blue Day, the history of the blue jacket, and why the tradition continues to inspire pride and connection among FFA members nationwide.
February 27, 2026 12:21 PM
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National FFA Annual Fund Manager Kimberly Coveney encouraged everyone watching to join the effort today and help celebrate Give FFA Day while investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
February 26, 2026 02:04 PM
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Tennessee FFA officers join us in the RFD-TV Studios to showcase student leadership and inspire support for agricultural education on Give FFA Day 2026.
February 26, 2026 01:30 PM
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