In the heart of Texas, where rich soil meets vast open skies, a partnership thrives—one rooted in the shared mission of protecting the land and empowering the next generation of stewards. The collaboration between the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB), Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts (ATSWCD) and the Texas FFA is more than a meeting of minds; it’s a union of legacy, education, and conservation action.

The TSSWCB has long been a cornerstone of Texas’ conservation efforts, working with local stakeholders to protect and enhance the state’s precious soil and water resources. The Texas FFA, with its more than 150,000 student members, serves as a powerhouse of agricultural education and leadership development. Together, these organizations are fostering a culture of stewardship that bridges the gap between education and environmental preservation.

TSSWCB and the ATSWCD have proudly been involved with the Texas FFA since the early 1990s and it still remains a priority to date.

“My experiences in the Texas FFA ignited my passion for Texas and the preservation of its natural resources. This organization instills core values such as respect, integrity, and responsibility which help to shape strong stewards of our land. The skills and experiences gained through FFA set members apart, ensuring future generations can rest easy knowing our world is in capable hands. We are proud to partner with such an outstanding organization,” said Rex Isom, TSSWCB Executive Director.

At the core of this partnership is education while fostering important professional skills through both the Soil Stewardship Public Speaking Contest and the Wildlife Alliance for Youth (WAY).

Beginning in 1995, the Soil Stewardship Public Speaking Contest is a unique opportunity for high school agricultural science students to explore and share their passion for conservation. Contestants write and deliver a six- to eight-minute speech in accordance with the year’s theme. With a new theme each year, the contest highlights current conservation trends, such as the critical role of soil in sustaining agriculture, natural landscapes, and environmental health. By emphasizing the importance of soil and water as living, dynamic resources, the contest inspires students to become advocates for sustainable stewardship, ensuring the health and productivity of Texas’ natural landscapes for generations to come. Since 1997, the ATSWCD has generously awarded scholarships to the top three placing individuals in the state, investing more than $115,000 in college scholarships. This commitment reflects their pride in empowering young agriculturists and supporting their educational pursuits.

During my time in FFA, I really enjoyed participating in the soil stewardship public speaking contest. Each year, I had the opportunity to research a new topic and compete at the district, area, and sometimes even the state level. I developed a deeper awareness of water, pollinators, soil, trees, and other critical agricultural topics. I’m incredibly grateful to the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts for their partnership with Texas FFA to organize such a unique contest.” says Lily Ford, former contest participant.

The FFA Motto is “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live and Living to Serve.” Through Career Development Events (CDEs), the Texas FFA allows students to learn through hands-on experiences, giving them the opportunity to experience real life scenarios in a controlled environment while gaining valuable knowledge. The Wildlife CDE equips students with real-world skills while fostering a deep appreciation for natural resource conservation and responsible land stewardship. By offering hands-on, in-the-field, problem-solving events aligned with agricultural science wildlife and recreation courses, WAY helps students and teachers better understand the biology and management needed to sustain Texas’ diverse wildlife and habitats. With hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation contributing billions to the state's economy, the program also emphasizes safety, state game laws, and sustainable practices, ensuring the next generation is prepared to protect and enjoy Texas' natural heritage. These experiences are transformative. For many young Texans, they spark a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.

In 2000, the WAY partnership was formed to enhance student’s experience through the Wildlife CDE by offering scholarships and cost assistance provided by the ATSWCD, to those who participate. TSSWCB is the lead agency in organizing the Wildlife Alliance for Youth, ATSWCD, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, and the Texas Education Agency, along with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), all partner in the success of the youth organization.

"The Texas FFA is proud to partner with the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board to cultivate the next generation of conservation-minded leaders. Through hands-on learning and FFA experiences, we equip students with the knowledge and skills to protect Texas’ land and natural resources actively. The lessons they learn today will shape the future of agriculture, ensuring the preservation of our soil and water for generations to come" said Jennifer Jackson, Texas FFA Executive Director.

The goal of the partnership is to instill a sense of responsibility for the environment in the next generation of agriculturists. In a state as vast and agriculturally vital as Texas, the need for dedicated conservationists has never been greater. The partnership between TSSWCB and the Texas FFA represents an investment in that future—a promise that the fields, pastures, and waterways of Texas will remain healthy and vibrant for decades to come. By merging expertise with youthful enthusiasm, the TSSWCB and Texas FFA are proving that partnerships like theirs are the seeds of sustainable progress. Together, they are cultivating not just crops and cattle, but a legacy of care for the land that sustains us all.