FarmBeats for FFA Members in Puerto Rico
On May 12, 2024, exciting news arrived in Puerto Rico from the executive secretary of FFA Puerto Rico: an unexpected opportunity had come the way of an FFA chapter on the island.
The Domingo Aponte FFA Chapter in Lares was selected to participate in FarmBeats for Students, becoming the only FFA chapter in Puerto Rico currently involved in the Microsoft program.
The chapter received 20 kits and a $400 check to invest in the project. Since then, members have been exploring the possibilities of agricultural technology through hands-on activities. Currently, members are conducting tests to measure moisture, light and temperature, while also programming micro:bit devices. These experiences allow them to learn how data collection can help provide a better understanding of soil conditions and other factors critical to agricultural production.
FarmBeats has become more than just a technology project. Its activities have fostered greater participation within FFA and throughout the school. What began as an opportunity to explore agricultural technology soon evolved into something much larger: a hands-on experience that brought together students from various academic levels, as well as teachers from subjects such as science and mathematics.
Through FarmBeats, FFA members are not only learning about technology but also exploring how these tools could contribute to the future of agriculture in Puerto Rico and assist farmers in making data driven decisions.
FFA Puerto Rico continues to move forward, with its chapters engaging in exciting new experiences!
