In his contest entry, Huntington said: “In the future, the lives of farmers will certainly change as we look to solve the issue of world hunger. This may occur through research and development, the use of biotechnology and other agriscience areas, or even through important partnerships.” 

Huntington is a student at East Union Community High School and a member of the East Union FFA chapter. His FFA advisor is Mike Cooley. 

As the contest winner, Huntington will receive a $500 award from GROWMARK at the Iowa FFA State Convention in Ames, held in April. The East Union FFA chapter will also receive a $300 award in honor of his accomplishment. 

Four state runners-up will each receive a $125 award. The runners-up and their FFA chapters are, in alphabetical order: Emily Freese, Carroll Area FFA Chapter, Carroll, Iowa; Madison Klingenborg, North Butler FFA Chapter, Dumont, Iowa; Jade Ridgely, South Central Calhoun FFA Chapter, Rockwell City, Iowa; and Nadia Schafbuch, HLV FFA Chapter, Ladora, Iowa. 

This is the 27th year for the program, sponsored by the GROWMARK System and FS member cooperatives, in conjunction with state FFA leaders, to help young people develop their writing skills, learn about current issues in agriculture, and understand the unique role of cooperatives.