During the month of April, the Radio Oklahoma Ag Network and Oklahoma Farm Report are spotlighting the 18 Area Stars of Oklahoma FFA, who are among the highest achievers in the organization.
The stars come from the five areas in four categories- Star in Ag Placement, Star in Agriscience, Star in Agribusiness, and Star in Agricultural Production.
This week, we spotlight the five area stars in Agriscience in 2024.
One Star Finalist featured in the coming days from each of the categories will be named the State Star Award Winner during the 98th Oklahoma State FFA Convention, which will take place on May 7th and 8th in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
This week, our coverage of the 2024 Oklahoma FFA Star Award Finalists begins with Agriscience competitor Titus Montgomery of the Red Oak FFA chapter representing the Southeast Area.
“My project has been one I have continued for the last three years,” Montgomery said. “It is about determining the effects of Ivermectin on earthworms as it enters the soil. I have been trying to determine if it is toxic or lethal to earthworms.”
Montgomery said the idea for this project stemmed from a conversation with his ag teacher about using Ivermectin and how it impacts soil health.
“Earthworms are agriculture’s unsung heroes,” Montgomery said. “There is not a better example. Not only do earthworms aerate the soil and provide infiltration through water systems and such, but they are also soil builders. Without soil, we don’t have crops, and we don’t have grass for our cattle to eat, and the world stops.”
Montgomery did find in his studies that particular levels of Ivermectin do have negative impacts on earthworm populations.
Through his project, Montgomery said he has found a passion for scientific research, which has led him to the goal of conducting graduate research at Oklahoma State University one day.
Your coverage of the 2024 Oklahoma FFA Convention is sponsored by Hilliary Communications- who deliver the latest cutting-edge communications services supporting tens of thousands of customers across 22 counties throughout Oklahoma, Texas and Iowa. The company offers internet, voice and HilliaryTV. Hilliary Communications continuously researches the marketplace for innovations and strives to improve underserved areas, offering services that exceed customer expectations. Click here to learn more about Hilliary Communications.
For more information about the 98th Oklahoma State FFA Convention, click here.
