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DISCOVERY & GREENHAND CONFERENCE

The Discovery and Greenhand Conferences give new FFA members their first introduction to the organization. Led by state officers, these conferences use interactive activities to teach FFA history, traditions, and the meaning of the emblem and motto while helping students build leadership and teamwork skills. Middle school and first-year members also learn how to get involved in events, conventions, and officer roles, leaving inspired and prepared to continue their FFA journey.

Schedules & Other Details

  • This conference series is held each October in three regional locations (typically Moscow, Pocatello, and Boise) and is co-located with the BASIC Conference.


    Exact dates and venues are announced via the Idaho Ag Ed Listserv and are also posted on the Calendar.

    • Process: Advisors register their chapter(s) using the official online form shared through the listserv.

    • Tracks: Select Discovery (middle school) or Greenhand (first-year members) for each student.

    • Capacity: Seats are limited and may fill quickly; early registration is encouraged.

    • Confirmation: A confirmation email is sent after successful submission. If you don’t receive confirmation, registration is not complete.

    • Reminders: Registration details, deadlines, and any add-on opportunities (if offered locally) are shared through the Idaho Ag Ed Listserv and the Calendar.

    • Register students by the stated deadline and select the appropriate track (Discovery or Greenhand).

    • Prepare students with basic FFA context (Creed, emblem, motto) and expectations for participation and conduct.

    • Coordinate transportation and supervision for the full event day.

    • Share any school or district permission forms required for travel.

    • Format: One-day, interactive, state officer-led sessions tailored to each track.

    • Attire: Final attire guidance (e.g., school-appropriate or Official Dress for portions, if requested) is provided in the pre-event materials.

    • Meals: Meal details vary by site; specifics are included with the registration confirmation.

    • Co-Location: Runs in conjunction with the BASIC Conference; schedules are coordinated to streamline travel and maximize participation.

  • For questions about registration, housing, or event details, please reach out to the Idaho FFA State Staff. Contact information is available here.

  • Who should attend Discovery vs. Greenhand?
    Discovery is designed for middle school members; Greenhand is for first-year high school members.

    Is this only for members attending BASIC?
    No. Discovery & Greenhand are separate FFA events that are co-located with BASIC to simplify travel and scheduling.

    What should students wear?
    Follow the attire guidance included in your pre-event materials. (If Official Dress is requested for any portion, it will be clearly stated there.)

    Will lunch be provided?
    Site-specific meal information is included in the registration confirmation and pre-event materials.

    Where do I find the dates?
    Dates are announced on the Idaho Ag Ed Listserv and posted on the Calendar.