Quitman High School FFA students presented a mock debate on East Texas groundwater to Wood County commissioners as they prepare for district competition. The event, called the Ag Issues Forum, has students debate agriculture issues that affect where they live against other school districts.
The seven students researched the dispute over East Texas groundwater and the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer, which supplies water to 66 Texas counties. Senior Lutske Bouma argues for the Dallas-Fort Worth area, seeking more aquifer water for its hospitals. Kinsey Hipp argues for East Texas, pushing for conservation and for protecting rivers and lakes. "The aquifer we're talking about... it affects our kids' lives in the future," Hipp said.
After about 15 minutes of discussion, a Wood County commissioner said the topic hits home because the county has been discussing water conservation. The group placed third at the area competition last year, one place short of state. Students said they need a first- or second-place finish this year to qualify. "We're really gunning for 1st or 2nd this year," a student said.