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                                Gilmer FFA Member Awarded for Six-Year Journey in Aquatic Research and FFA Growth
                                
                                 
                                 
                                
                                
                                
                            
                                    Tuesday, October 28, 2025      |       Author: Texas FFA News
                                
                                  
                                
                                    
                                    Madison Perkins’ SAE spans six years of researching water quality and aquatic habitats, including studies on pond biodiversity, algae control, effects of cattle and fertilizer on water, and plant preferences of white-tailed deer.
 “In the past 7 years, I have competed in 31 science fairs outside of my school,” said Perkins.
 
 
   
 Over time, her roles evolved from relying on advisors and basic data analysis to independently designing experiments, managing multiple pond sites, and conducting international research in Jamaica.
 
 
   
 Her greatest challenge was overcoming a fear of venomous snakes in aquatic environments, and while she is still scared of them, she has successfully learned to work safely and confidently in high-risk settings to advance her research.
 
 
  
 “The confidence I have gained from completing long-term research projects and presenting to adults has helped me tackle new challenges in other FFA competitions,” said Perkins.
 
 Learn more about Perkins' project here!
 
				
                            
			 
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