Nicholas Worley of Valdosta, Ga., wondered if the biomass from Georgia's forests could produce a substantial amount of ethanol. By utilizing scientific methods, Worley was able to discover that ethanol could be produced from both clean wood chips and un-merchantable forest biomass.

He also discovered that it could indeed produce a large amount of ethanol.

For his work, Worley was recognized as Agriscience Student of Year and was presented with a $1,500 scholarship at the 81st annual National FFA Convention. He is a member of the Lowndes FFA Chapter. He is the son of Sharon and Eric Thomas. His FFA advisor is James Corbett.

Eight national finalists are selected for the Agriscience Student of the Year award. To qualify, applicants must present the findings of their own agriscience-related research projects. They are also evaluated on their general academic achievements and their involvement in school and community activities.

The Agriscience Student of the Year Scholarship and Recognition Program is sponsored by Monsanto as a special project of the National FFA Foundation

Visit www.ffa.org for more information.