Nitrogen Know-How From A Teen Agronomist - RDA 504

In this episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast, we’re joined by 16-year-old Brayden Arnall, who recently won the National FFA Agriscience Award. This episode isn’t just about a student project—it’s a story of curiosity turned passion, and a father-son bet that led to a national title. Brayden walks us through his award-winning research on nitrogen stabilizers, tillage practices, and ammonia volatilization, breaking down complex science in an engaging and relatable way. Co-hosts Dr. Brian Arnall and Dave Deken, along with guest host Dr. Paul Weckler, offer commentary on the broader impact of youth agricultural programs like FFA and 4-H in Oklahoma and beyond.Listeners will hear about Brayden's methodology, the surprising results from his controlled barn experiments, and how these findings could influence farming practices. Plus, he gives a sneak peek into his next project on winter wheat growth and irrigation. Whether you're a researcher, educator, student, or just someone who appreciates the next generation of ag leaders, this episode is packed with inspiration, science, and Oklahoma charm.Top 10 Key TakeawaysBraden Arnall won the National FFA Agriscience Fair with a project on nitrogen stabilizers and tillage.His experiment showed that no-till plots had more ammonia volatilization losses than tilled ones.Anvol was the most effective nitrogen stabilizer in reducing nitrogen loss.Braden began his agriscience journey in middle school, building on skills from 4-H.His project used controlled PVC-tube environments and ammonia detection tools.He’s now researching irrigation impacts on winter wheat and nitrogen use.Youth participation in agriscience is strong in Oklahoma, especially Stillwater.Braden’s early exposure to research is guiding his career toward agronomy.The family’s tradition of “5-minute science” helped Braden understand college-level concepts early.The episode emphasizes the value of mentorship and community in ag education.Major Discussion Timestamps00:00–00:02 – Episode setup: the “father-son bet,” Brayden’s national win, and where to find info.00:01–00:02 – Plug: upcoming recording at the Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference (Feb. 13).00:02–00:04 – On location at KNID AgriFest (Enid); Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth + the cinnamon roll/bread scene.00:04–00:07 – Brian explains the “promise” and Brayden’s path: early success, then winning nationals + spotlight presentation.00:07–00:10 – Dr. Paul Weckler joins; why Agriscience matters for STEM ag careers; what Agriscience competition is.00:10–00:11 – 4-H speaking background and why it gave Brayden confidence in FFA.00:11–00:16 – The research: nitrogen stabilizers, tilled vs no-till, ammonia volatilization + nitrate leachate; how the measurements were taken.00:16–00:18 – Age check (Brayden is 16) + “five-minute science” mentoring and learning the nitrogen cycle.00:18–00:21 – Agriscience momentum in Stillwater; youth research examples; workforce need in ag engineering/ag systems tech.00:21–00:25 – Brayden’s new project: rainfed vs irrigated winter wheat response with stabilizers; real-world Oklahoma weather challenges.00:25–00:27 – Undergrad research opportunities + how early research can feed future grad students.00:27–00:29 – Media moment: Brayden featured on “Is This a Great State or What?”00:28–00:31 – What’s next: chapter officer run, public speaking, possible land judging; speech topic See & Spray.00:30–00:32 – Dr. Weckler’s perspective: computer vision roots and how today’s tech builds on earlier work.00:30–00:32 – Staying active in both 4-H and FFA; what each teaches.00:32–00:33 – Wrap + thanks + where to connect. RedDirtAgronomy.com