As the world's population continues to grow, we will need skilled professionals to help develop new food resources, foster our animals and protect our oceans, lakes and forests.  Working within this career field, you many use principles of biology, chemistry and other sciences to study farm crops and animals, and help to conserve our natural resources.  If you have an interest in feeding the world, developing new food resources, monitoring and assisting animal species, and fostering healthy oceans, lakes and forests, the Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources curriculum may be for you.

Our mission:
Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources prepares students for employment and/or continuing education opportunities in agriculture through technical instruction in the classroom, experiential education through the laboratory and leadership and personal development in student leadership organizations.

Do you have a green thumb?
Do you enjoy working with plants and animals?
Are you interested in geology and mining?
Are you passionate about protecting the environment?
Do you have physical dexterity?
Do you enjoy an outdoor work environment?

If you answered yes to two or more of the questions above, you might enjoy a career in agriculture and natural resources. One of the following jobs might be a great fit for you:

• Bacteriologist
• Animal Nutritionist
• Food & Drug Inspector
• Veterinarian
• Meat Cutter-Grader
• Fish & Game Officer
• Soil & Water Specialist
• Farm/Ranch Manager
• Golf Course Superintendent
• Livestock Buyer/Seller
• Mining Engineer
• Aquaculturist
• Greenhouse Manager
• Animal Trainer

Jobs in the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster involve planning, managing, and performing agricultural production, horticulture and landscaping services, and related professional and technical services; planning, managing, and performing mining and extraction operations, managing and conserving natural resources; and performing related environmental services.

By taking courses within the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Cluster, students learn the value and understand the vital role of agriculture, food, fiber, and natural resources systems in advancing personal and global well-being. Agriculture is the nation's largest employer, generating approximately 20 percent of our nation's gross product and 20 percent of our national employment. However, 10 percent of today's professional jobs in agriculture go unfilled because of a lack of qualified graduates. As the demand increases for agricultural products, so does the demand for qualified individuals.

Our vision is to see that all students have an appreciation for agriculture and the environment and that the students develop essential career preparation skills, as well as personal leadership opportunities.

Career Technical Student Organization

FFA (Future Farmers of America) is the student leadership organization for Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. FFA is an integral and necessary component of the overall program. FFA is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of your people by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. Members have the opportunity to participate in numerous leadership development activities/conferences, and the opportunity to participate in the State and National conventions. Over $1,000,000 in college scholarships is awarded annually to deserving FFA members. FFA also offers members the opportunity to participate in international travel experiences, mentoring programs and many other personal development and recreational activities at the local level.