In 2025, Maine is celebrating the Year of Youth in Agriculture, an initiative dedicated to inspiring and supporting the next generation of farmers, foresters, and agricultural leaders. Throughout the year, Real Maine will spotlight young people, along with farms and producers, and their connection to youth in agriculture.
Julia Pierce, 18, has been raising cattle with her sisters for 10 years. Starting with two heifers, the sisters joined their local 4-H club. Julia said starting in 4-H at a young age helped her become more familiar with different breeds of cattle, how to find a cow with the best qualities, and exactly what a cow needs to grow as well as it can. She said 4-H gave her “a good structure and knowledge of beef cattle,” and now the sisters’ herd has grown to 24.
While working on expanding the herd, Julia had the opportunity to join her middle school FFA chapter. This opportunity helped her build relationships with older students who would help mentor her. In her high school’s FFA chapter, she got the chance to compete in many different competitions, which helped her gain confidence in public speaking and gain more knowledge about animal and plant production. During high school, she served as her FFA chapter president and the state reporter. As a state FFA officer, she has had the chance to travel and learn how to advocate for agriculture, as well as teach students how they could use their voice to help advocate.
What does “youth in agriculture” mean to you?
To me, youth in agriculture means getting the younger generation involved and working alongside farmers to learn about Maine’s agriculture. It creates an opportunity for kids to find a career path within the ag industry while being able to seek help and continue long-held traditions.
What is inspiring you to be among the next generation of farmers, foresters, and agricultural leaders?
Some of the biggest inspiration in the ag industry comes from the farmers themselves. They are always dedicated to their work, put all their faith into the weather, crops, and animals, and never seem to give up. There is something to be said for seeing all of the men and women putting their all into agriculture even when they don’t know exactly what will come from all of their efforts.
Julia graduated from Central Aroostook High School in the spring and plans on attending Northern Maine Community College this fall to pursue a business degree. She hopes to continue growing the beef cattle business she has with her sisters.
