OGDENSBURG -- Northwest Technical Center students have resurrected the St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES school’s chapter of Future Farmers of America (FFA).

The club provides agriculture education and technical skills to students interested in pursuing an agriculture career.

Led by first year teacher Patricia Gilbert, the natural resources class launched their endeavor in September 2014 and finished out the year in June with a celebratory banquet. This year, the club has gained interest from more students and plans to bolster the community service component

“Northwest Tech’s chapter is only the fourth chapter in the county, even though we are the largest county in the state, and agriculture is one of the top industries,” Gilbert said. “The average age of farmers is increasing and is around 65 years old. Many young people have left our area in search of employment even though many opportunities in agriculture exist here today. Since our area is heavily based in agriculture, we need more young people to return in order to continue the agriculture businesses and farms. We need more agricultural programs in high schools in this county.”

The Northwest Tech chapter includes 17 students, with an officer team of six. Natalie Chambers is president, Alyssa Gagnon is vice president, Harley Rubin is secretary, Josiah Fifield is treasurer, Joey Pellerin is sentinel and Chelsea Smith is the reporter.