October 3rd, 2019 CCRCD had three participants in the Speak-Off contest.  Two contestants represented Pierce High School: senior, Crystal Medina, and freshman, Katie Washburn.  Medina took second place and plans on a future in Agriculture Communications, clearly a natural fit.  Washburn came in third place and expects to participate in the coming years.  Abby Dunlap, a junior from Maxwell High School, won first place as she spoke clearly about the state of the Western Monarch butterfly and how RCDs could help restore migratory habitat that is necessary for the declining population to rebound. Beyond, providing pollination and being a vital part of the food chain, all spoke to the striking beauty of the butterfly that is invaluable to the landscape of their home towns set in the Sacramento Valley.  All participants are actively involved in their high school’s Future Farmers of America programs.   Dunlap was invited to compete at the Sacramento Regional Speak-Off on October 22nd.  CCRCD wishes her the best and hopes to hear her speech again at the upcoming meet. CCRCD thanks all the participants on taking the time to put together a thoughtful presentation on the Western Monarch and learning more about Resource Conservation Districts.