High School Students Debate Salmon Reintroduction

The Reardan, Washington, High School Agricultural Issues team of the school’s Future Farmers of America Chapter presented a debate about reintroduction of salmon above Chief Joseph and Grand Coulee dams to the Council on March 8.

Reardan High School teacher Rick Perleberg, who advises the debate team, said the six students developed the presentation as part of a requirement for state and national level competition, in which teams are required to build a portfolio of public presentations.

The presentations are intended to address controversial topics and fairly represent various points of view. At the time they presented to the Council, the Reardan students were in first place in their district and aiming toward the state completion and, ultimately, a shot at winning the national title in October at the FFA convention in Indianapolis.

Following the debate, Council members complemented the students for the thoroughness of their research and knowledge and offered comments to help further refine the presentation.