FFA is in 220 schools statewide

Contributed photo
Minnesota has a new license plate option that will benefit FFA.

A new Minnesota license plate celebrating agriculture will benefit 4-H and the state’s FFA members.

The plate’s design was unveiled last Friday. FFA members and 4-H’ers joined Agriculture Commissioner

Thom Petersen and Assistant Agriculture Commissioner Patrice Bailey for the event, along with leaders

from both organizations

“We’re excited to have this new license plate that highlights the diversity of Minnesota’s ag economy,”

Petersen said. “This is an opportunity for Minnesotans to show their commitment to agriculture while

supporting our young leaders in FFA and 4-H.”

Inspired by nearly 100 sketches from 4-H’ers and FFA members, the plate draws upon imagery of both

organizations. The hands holding seedlings symbolize the 4-H pledge of “my hands to larger service,” while the rising sun is a “token of a new era in agriculture” honored in FFA ceremonies.

Leaders of both groups acknowledged their appreciation for legislation passed in 2021 that created the new plate. The plate will become available to Minnesotans later in February and will cost $15.50. A minimum $20 contribution is due with plate purchase and each year afterward at vehicle registration renewal.

Both organizations expressed their gratitude for support for young people with a license plate honoring agriculture.

“Agriculture is woven into 4-H’s past, present and future and it’s open to all youth in Minnesota. We plan to broaden and deepen young people’s knowledge and involvement in agriculture so that they act on their ability as agricultural learners, leaders, innovators, global citizens and agents of change,” said Jennifer Skuza, associate dean for Youth Development at University of Minnesota Extension and Minnesota 4-H State Director.

“The Minnesota FFA Foundation ensures that students enrolled in agriculture, food and natural resource classes have access to premier leadership, personal growth, and career success, regardless of

their economic situation,” said Val Aarsvold, executive director, Minnesota FFA Foundation. FFA is in 220 rural, urban and suburban schools statewide.