Diamond Trail’s poultry team receives bronze at nationals

The Diamond Trail FFA chapter of Monroe competed in the National Poultry Evaluation Career Development Event against 39 other teams. The event was held in conjunction with the 85th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Ind. The team, led by advisor Ed Ricks, received a bronze emblem. Members included Michael Birkenholtz, bronze emblem; Tyler Espencheid, bronze emblem; and Jennafer Uitermarkt, high silver emblem. Participants competed individually with 140 other participants.

The National Poultry Evaluation CDE is a competitive event that tests the participant’s ability to select top quality poultry and poultry products needed for successful production and marketing. This event is sponsored by Newly Weds Foods Inc., Tyson Foods Inc., and U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. Event participants must complete a written exam on poultry management, evaluate classes of live birds for eggs and meat production, evaluate quality of eggs, and evaluate and identify parts and products.

The Diamond Trail chapter was able to compete in this event by placing third at the Iowa FFA Meats Evaluation event. The team at the state level consisted of Alex Samson, Derrick Hoodjer, Tyler Espencheid, and Michael Birkenholtz. This is the first time the Diamond Trail chapter has participated in this national competition.