FFA Cotton Judging team wins State Championship

For The Madera Tribune

From left, Malia Rodriguez, Alma Vasquez, Manuel Reyes-Herrera, and Aracely Reyes-Herrera show off their state champion ribbons, banner and trophy after winning the Cotton Judging state competition on November 1.

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MSHS FFA teacher earns degree

The Madera FFA Cotton Judging Team captured the State championship at the California State Finals and Field Day held on Saturday, November 1 at California State University, Fresno. 

The team, coached by MTEC Ag Lab teachers Sigifredo Contreras and Rachel Mancebo, showcased their exceptional knowledge of California’s cotton industry and earned top honors among the state’s best competitors.

The Cotton Judging Career Development Event challenges students to apply their agricultural expertise through the evaluation of two primary cotton  varieties, Acala and Pima. Teams of four FFA members from across the state compete in judging and ranking classes of cotton plants, bolls, lint, and seeds. Participants must also provide oral reasons to justify their placings and complete a comprehensive exam covering cotton production, harvesting, ginning, and marketing, which are key aspects of California’s cotton industry.