The Righetti FFA are the state champions after competing in the finals for fruit tree pruning at Fresno State University last week.

The team consists of Evelyn Pera (4th high individual), Aaron Davila (12th high individual), Mackenzie George (1st high individual), Haley Buchanan (3rd high individual), and advisor Miguel Guerra.

“Competing against schools in the San Joaquin Valley that are surrounded by fruit trees is not easy,’’ Guerra said. “It is very challenging and takes a lot of practice to get ready. Our students practiced several times a week and traveled to the Visalia area once to practice.”

The Fruit Tree Pruning event seeks to effectively prepare the students to learn current agriculture pomology practices and procedures used in today’s industry.

“Workers seeking careers in agriculture must not only develop a high degree of knowledge and skill, but they must also develop the ability to solve difficult problems,” organizers said. “This event blends the testing of manipulative skills and knowledge required for careers in agriculture production.”