Mount Vernon FFA earns 3rd in county forestry contest

Team members excelled in tree ID and timber valuation, with Zeva Sheets placing 2nd overall individually.

The Mount Vernon FFA forestry team finished third in the annual Timber Cruise Competition recently. Team members are Weston Elliott, left, Koby McClain, Zoe Trager, Brady Bowers, Avery Hodges, Elena Culletto, Irelynne Moffat, Ryan Fletcher, Zeva Sheets, Wyatt Croghan, Ellie Boggs, Connor Thomas, Evie Martinez and Lilly Burchard.

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Published September 15, 2025 - 5:00 a.m. Modified September 16, 2025 - 9:42 a.m.

Members of the Mount Vernon FFA Chapter recently showcased their forestry skills during the annual Timber Cruise Competition, held Sept. 4, at the property of Garrett and Linda Swendal.

The competition challenged students to accurately identify tree species by leaf and bark and calculate marketable timber volume and value. Competing against FFA teams from across the county, Mount Vernon's team earned an impressive third place overall.

The team was led by members Zeva Sheets, Ryan Fletcher, and Koby McClain. Zeva Sheets also stood out individually, placing second overall in the contest.

"We're proud of how hard our students have worked to develop their forestry knowledge and skills," said Stephanie Plumly, Mt. Vernon FFA Advisor. "Their dedication is paying off, and we're excited to see what they’ll do at the next level."

The team advanced to the District 7 FFA Forestry Contest on Sept. 9.