GROWMARK has named Marrah Delmont of Halfway, Missouri as the state winner of the 2017 GROWMARK essay contest for FFA members with the theme “What value do cooperatives provide to today’s farmers?”

In her contest entry, Delmont said: “The benefits cooperatives provide go far beyond economics. As successful cooperatives grow, successful leaders, directors, managers, and other employees grow too. By putting members at the heart of the cooperative, farmers are taught the values of selflessness, teamwork, diligent labor, leadership, and a passion for agriculture that continues to grow with time. Cooperatives have been around for hundreds of years, and will continue to grow and benefit others. Cooperatives build a better world.”

As the contest winner, Delmont will receive a $500 award from GROWMARK and the Halfway FFA chapter will receive a $300 award in honor of her accomplishment. In addition, four state runners-up will each receive a $125 award. The runners-up and their FFA chapters are – Daniel Dothage, Wellsville-Middletown FFA; Taylor Dye, Paris FFA; Regan Meyer, Jefferson FFA, Stanberry; and Logan Westmoreland, Columbia FFA, Rocheport.

This is the 24th year for the program, sponsored by the GROWMARK System and FS member cooperatives, in conjunction with state FFA leaders, to help young people develop their writing skills, learn about current issues in agriculture, and understand the unique role of cooperatives.