Participants who were invited by Maine’s Commissioner of Agriculture to partake in Ag Legislative Day 2025.
On Jan. 14, 2025, Maine Governor Janet Mills signed a proclamation officially designating 2025 as the Maine Year of Youth in Agriculture. This proclamation launched a series of statewide initiatives designed to engage and support young agriculturists through enhanced access to resources, mentorship opportunities and networking experiences.
The first initiative took place during the 2025 Maine Agricultural Trade Show with a student-led panel held at the Commissioner’s Luncheon. Hosted by Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Commissioner Amanda Beal and Governor Mills, the panel elevated the voices of young leaders in agriculture as attendees heard firsthand accounts of their experiences and aspirations. Panelists included representatives from Maine 4-H and Maine FFA State President Lane Carmichael.
Following the luncheon, Governor Mills invited youth leaders to attend Agriculture Day at the Maine Legislature. A select group of students met with state senators and representatives to discuss the current state of agriculture in Maine. Throughout the day, participants were formally recognized by both the House and Senate for their dedication to the future of agriculture. Students also had the opportunity to meet personally with Governor Mills to discuss her continued commitment to engaging Maine’s agricultural youth.
Another major milestone of the Year of Youth in Agriculture occurred in September at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass. Known as “The Big E,” the exposition is the largest fair on the East Coast, bringing together hundreds of FFA members for competitions, star awards and livestock shows. This year also marked the 100th anniversary of the Maine Building on the fairgrounds.
To commemorate the occasion, Commissioner Beal invited Maine FFA state officers and 4-H leaders to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Prior to the event, state officers Jillian McLaughlin and Hannah Shaw conducted a one-on-one interview with Commissioner Beal, reflecting on key takeaways from the Year of Youth in Agriculture. During the interview, Commissioner Beal reflected on agriculture within Maine and those who make it so successful.
“I believe that we have a very bright future for agriculture in our state, and part of that is because of young people, like yourselves, who have such an interest in it,” said Beal when asked about her thoughts for the future. The celebration concluded with remarks from 4-H leaders, government officials and State President Carmichael.
While these events marked the conclusion of Governor Mills’ formal outreach efforts, Maine FFA members carried the momentum forward. Throughout the summer, the Maine FFA state officer team continued to inspire and engage young members statewide. Following their training with National FFA, the officers facilitated youth outreach events at agricultural fairs across Maine. These events provided FFA and 4-H members with opportunities to network, build connections and strengthen their leadership skills through workshops led by the state officer team.
Although the Maine Year of Youth in Agriculture came to a close, its impact will extend far beyond Dec. 31, 2025. Throughout the year, young members of Maine’s agricultural community were given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect directly with state leaders and have their voices heard. As Maine looks to the future, its youth are now better equipped with the knowledge, skills and relationships needed to lead and advance the state’s agriculture industry.
