FFA members observe the legislative process while connecting classroom lessons to real-world leadership.
What happens when agriculture students step into the world of policy? On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, members from the Milford, Lake Forest, Caesar Rodney and Woodbridge FFA Chapters found out firsthand as they gathered to attend the Delaware FFA Association’s Legislative Day. The event offered a unique opportunity for members to explore and further develop the connection between agriculture and government through real-world experiences.
The day began at Fifer Orchards, a fourth-generation family farm known for its commitment to agritourism and sustainable practices. Members toured the facility and learned how the Fifers blend tradition with innovation to connect consumers with local agriculture.
After the farm tour, attendees participated in a dynamic workshop led by Noah Dixon, a past Delaware FFA state officer. The workshop focused on advocacy, public speaking and making meaningful connections with policymakers.
Members from FFA chapters in Kent County explore how the Fifers have expanded their operations to now include a farm kitchen.
Dixon emphasized the importance of student voices in shaping the future of agriculture. “It’s incredibly important for all of our members to be able to advocate on behalf of the organization,” he says. “Our legislators are the ones who make impactful decisions for our day-to-day lives, so the more that they know about our organization, the more it’s going to benefit members as a whole, as well as those in the future.”
Prepared with knowledge and confidence, members then traveled to Legislative Hall in Dover, Del. Inside the historic state capitol, they met with legislators from across the state. They also engaged in roundtable discussions on pressing agricultural issues, such as farmland preservation, food insecurity, and youth engagement in agriculture careers. These conversations gave members a deeper understanding of how laws and policy directly affect the agriculture industry and their futures.
Roundtable discussions kick off as Representative Postles (left) and Senator Wilson (right) sit down with members to tackle pressing agricultural issues.
A highlight of the day included a special opportunity for select members to observe live sessions in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. From the House and Senate floor, they watched as lawmakers debated and voted on bills, providing a rare, real-time glimpse into the legislative process.
Woodbridge FFA Chapter President Riley Lineweaver was one of these individuals. “This experience was valuable, as it enabled me to personally connect with my legislators,” she says. “It also provided me the opportunity to advocate for the future generations of agriculturists.”
Legislative Day served as more than just a field trip — it was a call to action for the next generation of agriculture leaders. By bridging classroom knowledge with real-world advocacy, members are empowered to lead, influence and advocate for the future of farming.
From observing live sessions to meeting with policymakers, FFA members gained insight into how decisions are made and how their voices can help shape them. This unique experience not only fostered a deeper civic understanding, but also a renewed a sense of purpose, reminding students that leadership in agriculture starts with engagement beyond the field.
