FFA will compete in a Tri-Chapter Agr-Science fair from Jan. 6-8 at the Reed Stewart Agriculture Barn. The FFA group will face off against Mansfield, Arlington and Martin High Schools. Senior Cody Markwood looks to redeem himself of last year, since his biggest competition graduated.

“This is the biggest show of the year. I think I might be able to come back we will see what happens. Hopefully I will win. It’s going to be a good year,” Markwood said.

At the Tri-Chapter Agr-Science fair, members will participate in multiple competitions, including showing animals, horticulture and agriculture mechanics projects. Markwood will compete in the horticulture section using the same plant he used last year.

Though Arlington, Martin and Mansfield make up the tri-chapter, individuals win titles, rather than schools as a whole. Last year, Markwood won the title of Reserve Grand Champion.

“I feel like I will have a good shot this year to win something,” Markwood said. “It will be great to go out with a bang my senior year.”

Markwood won’t prepare for the Agr-Science fair differently than he will for any other show. In preparation, Markwood must make sure his cattle eats well and stays in shape. Markwood’s plants must also stay in top condition, without wilting or dying leaves.

“You have to become buddy-buddy with them. If you get scared then they will use that against you. If you work with them then they will work with you back,” Markwood said.