This weekend, Buckeye Union High School hosted its 41st Buckeye Ag Day annual event, marking a longstanding tradition that continues to bring together the community in support of its Future Farmers of America (FFA) program. The event, which featured a variety of youth livestock exhibitions and a highly anticipated dessert auction, saw volunteers from the Buckeye FFA Alumni take the reins in running the show. Their efforts helped make this year’s event one of the most successful in its history.
Thanks to the overwhelming support of local businesses and community members, the event raised $10,800 through the dessert auctions alone. The generosity of local sponsors, who contributed $28,000, also played a key role in making the day a resounding success. Over the past several years, approximately $15,000 annually from these efforts has been allocated to scholarships for students pursuing their post-high school dreams, ensuring that the legacy of Buckeye FFA continues for years to come.
The heart of the event was, of course, the livestock show. Over 200 youth from FFA, 4H, and other locals clubs displayed a wide range of animals, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, goats, sheep, hogs, rabbits, cavy, poultry, and pygmy goats.
The show featured a “peewee” portion that allows youth who are not old enough to show their own animal. Older participants help these younger farmers to show an animal in hopes that it encourages them to participate in the future.
The young participants showcased the hard work and dedication they’ve put into raising their animals, with all of the youth preparing for the pinnacle of the animal husbandry at the Maricopa County Fair in April. Melissa Veo, one of the three agricultural educators at the high school, won her own belt buckle in 2008 when she was part of the show.
One of the highlights of the weekend was the impressive panel of judges, who traveled from as far as Oklahoma to assist with the evaluations. Their expertise and commitment to fostering young talent were an invaluable asset to the students, who received insightful feedback that will help them refine their skills in preparation for future competitions.
“This event wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support from our volunteers, local businesses, and the Buckeye community at large,” said one of the many organizers, Buckeye FFA Alumni member, and local realtor Kim Melton. “It’s amazing to see how this tradition has grown and how the community continues to come together to support these students in their animal projects.”
As the Buckeye Union High School FFA chapter looks ahead to April’s Maricopa County Fair, the participants are motivated more than ever to continue their agricultural education and showcase the results of their hard work. With the funds raised this weekend and the ongoing commitment of local sponsors, the future looks bright for the next generation of agricultural leaders in Buckeye.
The 41st annual event not only celebrated the students’ achievements but also reminded everyone of the power of community support and the lasting impact of traditions that span generations.