An FSA Youth Loan helped Brandon Brown expand his cow/calf operation and further develop his Future Farmers of America project.
by Tim Story, farm loan officer, Winchester Farm Service Agency
Franklin County FFA Chaplain Brandon Brown of Estill Springs, Tenn., has a future career in agriculture in his sights.
Brandon, who was reared on his family’s beef cattle operation, enjoys managing and caring for the livestock and pasture. Recently with the help of The Farm Service Agency Youth Loan Program, Brandon was able to expand his cow/calf operation and further develop his FFA project in the process.
Jason Walker, Franklin County FFA advisor said “Brandon has shown great responsibility and continued to develop his management skills over the past few years that I have mentored him,” said Jason Walker, Franklin County FFA advisor.
Next year Brandon intends to sell some of his calves to continue his operation and if things are going well he should be able to hold back a calf or two to expand his breeding herd. Brandon hopes that by using his experience on the family farm and the education that he has received from being involved with the Franklin County FFA, he will be able to turn his project into a full blown operation that will one day provide a source of income for his family.
In the meantime, Brandon hopes that his cattle operation will serve him well as he competes against other FFA members in the state for what is referred to as his “supervised agricultural experience.” Brandon said he takes great pride in his FFA Chapter and has been able to participate and win various competitions, while developing his leadership skills. FFA has allowed Brandon to branch out and participate in various other community service projects and has represented his local chapter in the state and national FFA Conventions in Gatlinburg, Tenn., and Indianapolis, Ind.
“I have learned so much through FFA, the experiences, friendships, and memories will be with me for a lifetime,” said Brandon.
With the help of the Farm Service Agency, Brandon will be able to expand his cattle operation and FSA will be behind him every step of the way.
