Area FFA Chapters to Compete in Soybean Challenge

15 Illinois and Iowa FFA chapters will showcase their talents in the Pioneer brand A-Series soybeans Big A Challenge, with their masterpieces displayed at the 2019 Farm Progress Show in Decatur.

The 15 finalists, which will compete to win up to $2,500 for their chapter, include Clay City FFA, Mulberry Grove FFA and Stewardson-Strasburg FFA.

A judging panel selected the top 15 chapters in the collaboration between Pioneer and FFA that focuses on the next generation of soybean varieties and the next generation of growers. Each chapter will decorate a seven-foot-tall Big A statue, highlighting A-Series soybeans' science and yield potential while celebrating their local communities.

The chapters were selected based on an essay highlighting how A-Series soybeans benefit farmers and a sample design of their Big A statue. The chapter finishing first will receive $2,500, the second place finishers will receive $1,500, and the third place chapter will receive $1,000. The public also will vote for their favorites on the Pioneer Facebook and Twitter pages, with the winning chapter receiving the People's Choice Award and a special prize for its members.