California FFA News Spring 2016 | Page 6

Outstanding Chapter Lucerne Valley FFA Resting in the beautiful High Desert Section of the Southern Region, Lucerne Valley is a small scenic town of just under 7,000 people who are spread over 150 square miles. Our high school population is small, hovering around 215 students, but the Agriculture program touches nearly half, at 105 students. Lucerne Valley FFA was chartered in 1994 and since then we have had our one advisor and teacher, a Canadian transplant, Mr. Troy Van Bavel. Locally, we have many small livestock farms and the main crops are alfalfa and pistachios, with a few other varieties of specialty crops. There are three major mines that hug the surrounding mountains. Lucerne Valley FFA has thrived throughout these years largely due to the administration and community support, and the dedicated hard work of chapter members, past and present. The continued dedication, loyalty, and support by a variety of people, businesses, and community groups in our little town have played a major role in the success and reputation of our chapter. Our chapter is smaller in terms of numbers, yet our membership is large within our total population. Lucerne Valley agriculture department is able to offer the incoming freshmen e