Agriculture

Farm Bureau DC meetings include talks on farm bill

Issues affecting farming and ranching prevail across the country, whether the concerns surround farm policy, regulations, federal lands or a host of others. The American Farm Bureau’s Issue Advisory Committees have representatives on each committee from selected state Farm Bureaus to discuss issues and develop policy ideas. The AFBF IAC met March 8–9 in Washington, D.C. for the annual Issues Advisory Meetings.

Drought, Water Supply Advisory Committee meets Tuesday in Helena

The Governor’s Drought and Water Supply Advisory Committee will meet Tuesday, March 20, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at DNRC Headquarters, Montana Room, 1539 11th Ave., in Helena. Lieutenant Governor Mike Cooney will Chair the meeting.

Items on the agenda include: Current drought conditions and county drought map, a report on last month’s and projected weather conditions, a report from the NRCS Montana Snow Survey, a report on current and projected stream flows, a report on flood preparation and current conditions, discussion of proposed changes to MCA § 2-15-3308, and public comments.

Support Ag Literacy Program during tax season

The Montana Department of Agriculture encourages Montanans to support the Montana Agriculture in the Classroom program this tax season by contributing to the voluntary check-off program when filing this year’s income taxes.

“As the average age of farmers and ranchers continues to rise, it’s more important than ever that we educate the next generation on the importance of agriculture,” said MDA Director Ben Thomas. “Contributing to the check-off allows filers to invest directly in students and teachers throughout Montana.”

Project helps growers identify the best seed varieties for their farm

Organic Seed Alliance, University of Wisconsin-Madison, eOrganic, and the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service are proud to announce the release of a new, free publication, “The Grower’s Guide to Conducting On-farm Variety Trials,” to help farmers manage risk by identifying crop varieties that are optimal for their production systems and markets. The publication is part of a larger project that includes webinars, workshops, and an online tool for planning and managing on-farm trials.

Soil acidity and health workshop to be held in Fort Benton

The Chouteau County Soil Acidity Working Group has organized a soil acidity and soil health workshop at the Fort Benton Ag Center, 1205 20th St., on Feb. 27, in cooperation

February brings new local FSA director

FSA CED is alphabet soup for most people, but, for Liz Bradshaw, it’s a title she’s excited to take on. After a year of training, Bradshaw is now county executive

Pulse crops: What are they and why are farmers growing them?

You may have heard the term “pulse crop” floating around recently. This phrase is somewhat of an agricultural buzzword, because while some farmers have been growing pulses for quite a

State promotes Ag Mediation Program

The ag industry contributes billions to Montana’s economy, but the Montana Department of Agriculture knows the industry doesn’t happen without disputes. That, according to Jim Auer, is why the department

Need to renew your pesticide license?

In December of 2017, the Region 5 Private Applicator certification cycle ended (this region includes both Fergus and Petroleum counties). This means if you had a Private Applicator license to

Tractor Supply looking for Montana FFA projects to fund Grants for Growing

Montana FFA chapters in search of funding for their next animal science lab, community garden or other noteworthy agricultural project, take note. Tractor Supply Company stores in Montana launched their

Poll

Do you always wear your seatbelt when you are driving or riding in a vehicle?