Since 1928, FFA has worked to create Career Development Events (CDE) & Leadership Development Events (LDE) that demonstrate the meaningful connections between classroom instruction and real-life scenarios. CDEs & LDE's build on what is learned in agricultural classes and the FFA.

The events are designed to help prepare students for careers in agriculture and beyond. Classroom instruction comes alive as students demonstrate their skills in a competitive setting. CDEs & LDE's test the abilities of individuals and teams in 23 major areas of agricultural instruction.

The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Science CDE tests student knowledge and understanding on a variety of turfgrass focused topics. The event includes turfgrass, soil, weed, equipment, insect, disease, and irrigation identification, as well as interpretation of fertilizer, seed, and pesticide labels, interpreting soil tests, case studies, calibration and much more. This event advocates for young people to enter the turfgrass science profession by creating awareness and an opportunity to learn about the industry. 

For teachers interested in a secondary turfgrass science curriculum to use in the classroom and prepare students for the CDE, please contact Kristen Althouse at kalthouse113@gmail.com.