MACON, Ga. – Winners of the Forestry Career Development Event (CDE) were recognized at the 97^th Georgia FFA State Convention held at the Macon Centreplex on April 24-26, 2025. 

In the senior division, Karson Wham of Central of Carroll was the high scoring individual, followed by Sam Chesser of Pierce County and Joseph Thompson of Mary Persons placing second and third respectively. The senior team state winner was Mary Persons followed by Banks County in second place and Brantley County in third. 

The junior division high individual was Brady Veal of Central of Carroll, followed by Logan Ferguson of Banks County in second place and Henry Webb of CA Gray in third. The junior team state winner was Brantley County, with second place going to Central of Carroll and third place to Jackson Trail.

CDE and LDE awards are granted to FFA members and teams who have exhibited premier leadership, personal growth and career success in a variety of competitions. In the Forestry Career Development Event, students who participate in this CDE demonstrate their skills in diagnosing forest disorders, managing forests and forest inventory and applying approved silviculture practices.  

The Forestry Career Development Event was sponsored on the state level by the Georgia Forestry Foundation & The Harley Langdale Jr., Foundation.

The National FFA Organization, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, changed its name in 1988 to reflect the growth and diversity of agriculture. There are nearly 940,000 FFA members nationwide. The Georgia Association has more than 80,000 members, making it the third largest Association in the nation. The FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success, through agricultural education. 

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Media Contact: Katibeth Wise, (229) 254-4811, [email protected]