Temple, Texas -- Three outstanding Texas FFA students rose to the top of a competitive statewide field to claim top honors in the 2025 Soil Stewardship Public Speaking Contest, held June 6–7 in Stephenville. This year’s theme, “Life Beneath Our Feet,” invited students to dig deep, literally and figuratively, into the critical role that healthy soil plays in sustaining agriculture, biodiversity, and the environment.
The contest is a cornerstone of the partnership between the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB), the Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts (ATSWCD), and the Texas FFA Association. Since 1995, this program has provided a unique opportunity for agricultural science students to develop leadership skills and raise awareness about the importance of soil and water conservation.
Taking home first place and a $4,000 scholarship was Katelyn Krenek, a member of the Bellville FFA Chapter.
In second place, earning a $3,000 scholarship, was Ciara Hays of the Llano FFA Chapter. Rounding out the top three was Madison McClure from the Cleburne FFA Chapter, who received a $2,000 scholarship.
Kent Batman, President of the ATSWCD, applauded the students, saying, “This initiative equips young leaders to speak passionately and knowledgeably about agriculture and conservation. Every participant becomes an ambassador for stewardship across Texas.”
Molly Christensen, Superintendent of the Soil Stewardship Public Speaking Contest and Staff Member at TSSWCB, added, “This contest reinforces the importance of natural resource education and advocacy. By engaging in this contest, students are gaining real-world awareness of environmental issues and learning how to communicate solutions. Skills that will benefit them and their communities for years to come.”
Since its inception, the Soil Stewardship Public Speaking Contest has followed an annual theme that reflects the most pressing topics in conservation. The 2025 theme encouraged students to explore the often-overlooked ecosystem within the soil, emphasizing how soil health supports everything from food production to water filtration and climate resilience.
Over the years, ATSWCD has awarded more than $115,000 in scholarships to public speaking winners, a testament to their commitment to cultivating future conservation leaders. Beyond public speaking, this partnership between the TSSWCB and Texas FFA continues to grow through programs like the Wildlife Alliance for Youth, ensuring students are both inspired and empowered to protect Texas’ natural legacy.
For more information about the Soil Stewardship Public Speaking Contest, visit:
https://www.tsswcb.texas.gov/programs/public-information-and-education/soil-and-water-stewardship-public-speaking-contest
