Insects. Birds. Mammals. Fish. Reptile and Amphibians. The Fish and Wildlife team is practicing, focusing on these species to compete for first place. Practices are twice a week, students gather to get it done.
Being a member of FFA gives you opportunities to participate in Career Development Events (CDE). There are 25 events that happen throughout the year. One of the events is Fish and Wildlife. There are over 150 different species that are a possibility to get during the event, but they only have to name 10 species from each of the 5 animal groups.
Last year, the New Ulm team did well. “We placed second at regions last year,” said Advisor Jeff Nelson, “We were Seventh in state last year and hoping to get top 5 this year.”
“Once you see the species over and over again it basically becomes second nature to which animal is which,” said Senior team member Ben Alfred. “There are some main species we focus on because there are other species that are very similar and easy to mix them up.”
“If you put in the work to practice, you will be successful in the competition,” said senior Cody Serbus. “It is very rewarding to be ranked high in the state when you are all done and know you put in the time.”
After the teams compete, they take a 50-point test about the 5 animal groups and a 25-point test on questions based on current wildlife issues. The issues change from year to year; this year is Biological Indicators in Habitat Monitoring.
