We are excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025-2026 Massachusetts Agriculture Youth Council. The purpose of the council is to cultivate and foster the next generation of leaders in the agricultural industry. The council will meet throughout the year to hear from guest speakers from the agriculture industry, learn about the legislative procedures and workforce development opportunities, attend special events and tours, and enhance professional skills.
Participating in the Massachusetts Agriculture Youth Council will provide students with an opportunity to learn about the varied agricultural sectors in Massachusetts, emerging trends and innovation in farming, and deepen understanding of other states’ agricultural issues through connections with youth councils across the United States.
This opportunity is open to rising high school juniors and seniors enrolled in any public or private high school in Massachusetts. Members will serve a 1-year term from June to May. MDAR will select 14 students to serve on the Council, with 1 student selected from each Massachusetts county. MDAR intends to hold monthly meetings, with both in-person and virtual opportunities, on the first Thursday of the month at 5pm, please note this day might change based on council member’s availability. In-person opportunities, including attendance at events and farm/industry tours, will be available on an optional basis. Transportation to and from events will not be provided by MDAR, but MDAR will make every effort to keep costs as minimal as possible. MDAR will also make every effort to have virtual options for all events whenever possible.
Council members under the age of 18 will require parent or guardian permission to participate on the Council and any events hosted by MDAR in connection with the Council.
We encourage all Massachusetts high school sophomores and juniors to learn more and apply to the Council.