Pastures and Progress: Inside Carroll County FFA
Carroll County FFA Members give a tour of the school’s land-lab to Virginia Secretary of Agriculture, Katie Frazier.
At Carroll County High School in Southwest Virginia, agricultural education is not confined to a classroom. Instead, it is taking shape in pastures, greenhouses, and on a steadily revitalized school farm, an effort that has come to define the chapter’s recent growth.
In the past few years, Carroll County FFA has undergone a shift in focus, moving from an emphasis on forestry and plant science toward a more balanced program that includes livestock production alongside plant systems. This transition has been driven not only by leadership changes, but also by student interest and participation. “We’ve worked really hard on getting the farm back up and running,” said chapter officer Luke Vernon. “Now we’re looking into putting livestock on the property, which is a big step for our program.”
That step reflects a broader philosophy within the chapter: agriculture is best learned through direct experience. Whether students are clearing fence lines, managing greenhouse crops, or preparing land for future livestock, their learning is rooted in practical application. These projects are not side activities; they are central to how students understand agricultural systems and build technical competence.
This emphasis on experiential learning is especially visible in newer opportunities like the chapter’s cattle working team. Designed to give students firsthand exposure to livestock handling, the team introduces members to both the physical and behavioral aspects of working cattle. For many students, it represents a shift from observing agriculture to actively participating in it. As chapter officer, Natalie Culler explained, the experience provides “real, hands-on” learning that deepens understanding in ways traditional instruction cannot replicate.
Carrol County FFA members work their school farm.
Beyond the farm, Carroll County FFA extends learning into the community. Through farm tours, competitions, and public events, students engage with agricultural professionals and broaden their perspective on the industry. One of the most impactful examples is the chapter’s involvement in the Carroll County Agriculture Fair Ag Days, where members teach younger students about topics like plant science and tractor safety. This experience reinforces their own knowledge while also positioning them as advocates for agriculture.
The impact of these experiences is not limited to technical skill development. Students also build confidence, adaptability, and communication skills, qualities that are essential in agricultural careers and beyond. Participation in public meetings and community events encourage members to step into leadership roles, utilize their interpersonal skills, and represent both their chapter and the broader agricultural community.
Underlying all of this is a strong chapter culture built on support and shared purpose. Members universally describe the chapter as a place that challenges them to grow while also providing a sense of belonging. As Vernon noted, “It feels like a second family while still pushing everyone to grow and succeed.” That balance, between high expectations and strong support, has allowed the chapter to expand its programming while maintaining a cohesive identity.
As Carroll County FFA continues to develop its school farm and expand livestock opportunities, its approach remains consistent: meaningful learning happens through doing. By connecting classroom instruction with real-world application, the chapter is preparing students not only for careers in agriculture but also for leadership roles within their communities.
2025 – 2026 Carroll County FFA Officer Team: Luke Vernon, Madelyn Caviness, Evan Webb, Emma Wilmoth, Sarah Carrico, Kelsey Jones, Talon Henley, Paisley Snider, Natalie Culler, Kari Alderman, and Abygail Smith
