Kewanee and Wethersfield High School FFA students recently attended a joint “Ag Day” meeting hosted by the Kewanee Kiwanis Club and Rotary Club, bringing together students and community members to recognize the importance of agriculture in the region.
During the event, students listened to a presentation from guest speaker Brandon Hall, a location operations manager with West Central FS and self-proclaimed @ILSOILNERD.
Hall provided an overview of soil science, focusing on how soils are formed, the impact of glacial movement across Illinois and the factors that influence soil composition and health.
Hall also shared his personal journey into agronomy, explaining how his experiences at Black Hawk College and the University of Wisconsin–Platteville led him to become a soil expert.
Throughout the presentation, students learned key facts about soil, including the slow rate at which soil forms, the effects of wind and water erosion, and the causes of soil degradation.
Hall also outlined the four key principles of soil health: minimizing soil disturbance, maximizing soil cover, maximizing biodiversity and maintaining continuous living roots.
He emphasized the importance of understanding and applying these principles to support long-term soil sustainability, reinforcing his message that “Soil is the new cool.”
Kewanee School Supt. Rebecca Baney said the FFA students represented their districts well, “demonstrating attentiveness and interest throughout the program while engaging with community partners in attendance.
“Opportunities like Ag Day help connect students to real-world applications of agricultural science and strengthen community partnerships,” Baney said.
