A state 4-H wildlife food plot contest entitled F.A.C.E. (Food And Cover Establishment) For Wildlife was started in Tennessee in 1972. The contest involves 4-H members planting perennial food and cover plots with 5 lb. seed packets furnished free by the Wildlife Resources Agency. The 4-H'ers are required to keep accurate records on their plots. Plots are judged at the county level by the county Extension Agent and the Wildlife Officer, at the regional level by the WRA Regional Farm Game Biologist and one other person from another agency, and at the state level by the Extension Wildlife Specialist and the WRA State Farm Game Biologist. Awards include ribbons, shoulder patches, and conservation magazine subscriptions at the county level, cash at the regional level, and cash and trophies at the state level. Data concerning the value of food plots to wildlife were gathered during judging, and from records kept by 4-H'ers. These data were compared with data previously gathered concerning a seed distribution program for adult landowners.
