On Tuesday, July 28, youth from across Minnesota gathered at the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus for the annual 4-H & FFA Crop Scouting Competition. This engaging, hands-on event brought together teams of youth to put their agricultural knowledge, critical-thinking abilities, and field skills to the test in a friendly yet challenging environment.
Throughout the day, participants rotated through stations focused on identifying insect pests, diagnosing plant diseases, assessing weed issues, evaluating crop conditions, and demonstrating their knowledge of crop production. Each scenario mirrored real-world challenges faced by farmers, agronomists, and other agricultural professionals, giving youth an authentic glimpse into the demands and opportunities within the agricultural industry.
2026 Results
Senior Division
1st Place – Dakota/Polk/Rice County 4-H
2nd Place – Dodge County 4-H
3rd Place – Hubbard/Lake County 4-H
Intermediate Division
1st Place – Rice County 4-H
2nd Place – Hubbard County 4-H
The Crop Scouting Competition goes beyond testing skills—it is a valuable learning experience that allows youth to apply classroom knowledge to real-world agricultural challenges. Participants strengthen critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and decision-making skills while expanding their understanding of crop science and agronomy.
“When youth participate in the 4-H and FFA Crop Scouting Competition, they’re not just learning how to scout a field — they’re learning how to think, communicate and work through challenges,” said Anja Johnson, Minnesota 4-H STEM and AgriScience Manager. “Those life and career skills are what make experiences like this so valuable. We want young people to leave the competition knowing they have the skills and confidence to take on their next challenge.”
For many youth, the competition is as much about the journey as the outcome.
“Crop scouting taught me that even when the answers aren’t easy to find, you keep looking, keep asking questions, and keep learning—because that’s how you grow,” said a youth participant.
Special thanks go to local county 4-H programs for encouraging youth to explore plant science and crop management, as well as to the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council and Minnesota Corn Growers Association for their continued support in making this event and other agricultural learning opportunities possible.
