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Wondering what to get Dad for Christmas? Why not get him something he will enjoy for years to come! The Montana Stockgrowers Association's Big Sky Boots makes the perfect Christmas present and here's why: 1. CAN'T TAKE YOUR EYES OFF OF IT---There are nearly 200 pages of picturesque Montana ranches, great cattle and hard-working cowboys. Spend hours curled up in your favorite chair and flip through the pages, learning all about what it takes to run a Montana family ranch.
Read MoreThe following is a safety tip from the Montana Ag Safety Program. Many agricultural operations make use of smartphones and other technology to communicate and this is a new way for them to access safety information they can use on their operation. Montana Ag Safety program is a member of the High Plains Intermountain Center for Agriculture Health and Safety who made this technology available.
Read MoreThe Montana Stockgrowers Association's staff knows how lucky we are to have Ryan Goodman on the team. His accomplishments in the agriculture communication world are outstanding and he brings that innovation to MSGA and Montana's ranching community. We aren't the only ones who think Ryan is doing a great job... On Dec. 4, 2013 Ryan was awarded the Alliance to Feed the Future Communicator of the Year Award, presented by Alliance to Feed the Future and CropLife America. This inaugural award recognizes an outstanding communicator who is helping to balance the dialogue on modern food produ
Read MoreEach year, MSGA members create policy that directs the efforts of MSGA’s volunteer board of directors, officers, and staff. Policy is set at MSGA’s Annual Convention, held December 12-14, 201
Read MoreRachel Endecott, MSU Extension Beef Cattle Specialist Greetings from Bozeman! I can’t believe it’s nearly MSGA Convention time, but I’m looking forward to seeing many of you in Billings in December. I received a great question the other day about considerations for feeding “environmentally impacted” feeds, like rained-on hay or hailed-out crops. My first recommendation – for any feedstuff, not just weather-beaten forages – is to obtain a nutrient analysis. I’
Read MorePopular Farm Bill conservation program seeks producer participation (The following is a USDA press release) WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2013 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is opening the Conservation S
Read MoreIt's hard to believe, but the Christmas shopping season is well upon us and the days of 2013 are counting down quickly. There are many gifting options out there for your ranching family, but some may be hard to choose from. The MSGA store is a great place to start and find some personalized gifts that
Read MoreBy Lauren Chase for the Montana Stockgrowers Association and Foundation Montana's ranch families would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. As we prepared for this celebration, we asked some Montana ranchers what they are thankful for. Below is a compilation of their responses. As the MSGA and the Foundation, we are grateful for our members who work day in and day out to provide the world with safe, healthy, environmentally wholesome beef to the world. Each one of you are gems to the industry and we are thankful that you let us represent you. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Read MoreLast week, I had the opportunity to travel to our Collegiate Stockgrowers meetings in both Bozeman and Havre. Both groups are preparing for Thanksgiving break and Final Exams. The visit was a good chance to meet many of our members, remind them of the benefits of being a Montana Stockgrowers Student member and the advantage of netw
Read More(Associated Press) GREAT FALLS, Montana — Montana ranchers have donated 45 head of cattle for breeding stock to their South Dakota counterparts who lost thousands of cattle in a freak blizzard in October. The Great Falls Tribune reports (http://gftrib.com/1aYWoQr ) that the cattle shipped Friday. Montana ranchers Rene Brown and Alisha Burcham decided they wanted to do something and began gathering cattle donations from Montana's Hi-Line area in the northern part of the state. "Twelve hours this way with that storm and that could have been us," said Brown, a Chinook-area rancher. [caption id="attachment_960" align="alignright" width="300"]
At the Montana Stockgrowers Association, we are passionate about sharing the family ranching story! And what gets us even more excited is when our members get out their cameras and start clicking away! As part of the Montana Family Ranching Project, MSGA is hosting the 2nd annual Film Festival at the convention in December. The festival is open to all MSGA members and the entry topics range from cattle to life on the ranch
Read More(The following is a press release from the Public Lands Council) WASHINGTON (November 21, 2013) — The Public Lands Council (PLC) and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) hailed the Senate Com
The 2013 Montana Stockgrowers Convention is coming up in just a few short weeks. Last week we highlighted events scheduled for Thursday, December 12. If you missed those be sure to check that post and be sure to get your registration submitted online
Read MoreBy Lauren Chase, Montana Stockgrowers Association When I think of the Grammy Award-winning country band Big & Rich, I can’t help but sing-shout: “Save a horse, ride a cowboy!” This song is a feel-good, up-beat tune that is recognizable from when the first “dum-dum-dum-dum-dum-dum-daaaa” is sung. I can even remember it being one of the warm-up songs before my high school basketball game. While this song is what most people associate with Big and Rich, this week, I got to see the band in a new light. I was on a flig
Read MoreDENVER — The 24th annual Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) has officially opened its nomination season for 2014. Established in 1991 by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation (NCF) and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), the program has recognized the outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of U.S. cattle producers for more than two decades. Regional and national award winners are honored for their commitment to protecting the environment and improving fish and wildlife habitat while operating profitable cattle businesses.
Read More(Release from Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks) The governor-appointed Greater Sage-grouse Habitat Conservation Advisory Council will host seven public meetings later this month to examine a draft sage grouse habitat conservation strategy. The draft strategy was developed over the past six months by the citizen-based advisory council. It details a state-led effort to address threats to the species as identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and to preclude the need for listing the sage-grouse
(The following is a press release from the Public Lands Council) WASHINGTON—(Nov. 14, 2013) Today, the Public Lands Council (PLC) and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA
Winter isn't too far off and many of us have already experienced the first snow of the season. As I am settling into the routines and adjustments of living in a Northern climate, I'm learning that even a small chance of snow flurries can easily turn into a dusting of white on the ground overnight. This season be sure to send us your photos, videos, and stories of Montana ranch life during the winter. We would love to share them through all of our online channels. We thought the following Cowboy Poem was appropriate as we headed into colder weather. We never know what the weather may bring. Enjoy and stay safe out there! --Ryan Goodman
Read MoreHave you registered for the 2013 Montana Stockgrowers Convention and Trade show? Registering and quick and easy through the MSGA Events page! Over the next few weeks, we'll be highlighting each day of the convention and introducing the featured speakers. A full agenda and schedule is also available on the
Read MoreEarlier this year, we featured MSU's Steer-A-Year program where ranchers donate animals are receive performance data (28-day gains and carcass performance) and contribute to a hands-on learning experience for Bozeman students. "Donated steers make a direct impact on students, particularly those participating in the livestock judging program," according to program coordinator and Extension Beef Cattle Specialist, Dr. Rachel Endecott. The steers also contribute to the educational experiences of dozens of students in the College of Agriculture since the steers are used in animal science courses throughout the school year. Those courses include “Beef Cattle Management,” “Livestock Management – Beef Cattle,” “Meat Science,” and “Livestock Evaluation.”
Read MoreMany offices are closed today and there are still plenty of chores to be done, but that does not stop us from tipping our hats to the men and women who have so bravely served for their country. "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." -- John F. Kennedy
Read MoreThe Collegiate Stockgrowers at Montana State in Bozeman are selling raffle tickets for a bronze sculpture by Montana artist, C.R. Morrison. The sculpture, titled "Texas Tradition", was donated by Julie Boyer. Proceeds of the raffle go to help CSG with costs of the club educational opportunities and guest speakers. The drawing for the sculpture wil
Read MoreWritten by Chaley Harney, Executive Director, Montana Beef Council As the new fiscal year kicks off for the Beef Checkoff and the Montana Beef Council, we will embark on another year of beef promotion, research and education that is intertwined with the changing consumer marketplace and industry realities. According to the most recently available demand indices tracked by
Read More[caption id="attachment_805" align="alignright" width="300"] Rachel Abeh[/caption] Written by Rachel Abeh The Public Lands Council (PLC) hails the house for their work on H.R. 3189 the Water Rights Protection Act (WRPA). The bipartisan bill was introduced in early October by Congressman Scott Tipton (R-Colo.) and co-sponsors, Mark Amodei (R-
Read MoreThe 2013 Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) and Montana CattleWomen (MCW) Annual Convention and Trade Show will meet at the Holiday Inn Grand Montana in Billings, Mont. on Dec. 12-14. The Convention will offer opportunities for attendees to learn tips to improve their ranch or business, find out about new products available for their animal health and ranch supply needs at the trade show, and for members to weigh in on policy discussions. Members who attend convention will be eligible to win a Ford Super Duty truck from the Montana Ford Stores. At this year’s convention we are plannin
Read MoreA big thank you to the American Fork Ranch for this Throwback Thursday photo. Be sure to give them a 'Like' on Facebook. Do you have a Throwback Thursday photo for us to share? Send us your photo ([email protected]) and a brief background on the subject and your ranch photo may be featured on our TBT posts! Learn more about Jed and Annie Evjene and the American Fork Ranch is this Rancher profile. [
Read MoreThe first group of participants in the Montana Stockgrowers Mentorship program will be announced at Annual Convention this year. This program will be a great opportunity for seasoned members of the Montana ranching community to mentor some younger members and help guide their journey as becoming members of the industry. One of the participants is Walker Milhoan. Walker is a Collegiate Stockgrowers member at the University of Montana in Missoula. Here is a brief Q&A with Walker about par
Read More(Helena, MT) Montana Stockgrowers Association Research, Education and Endowment Foundation (REEF) announced today that a portion of the proceeds from each copy of “Big Sky Boots: Working Seasons of a Montana Cowboy” sold through Saturday, December 14, will be donated to support the Rancher Relief Fund. Earlier this month an early season winter storm moved through the area killing tens of thousands of livest
Betsy Indreland stands behind a table supporting two red coolers full of beef cuts. She smiles at people as they check out her stand at the Livingston Western Sustainability Exchange. A man in a plaid shirt and khaki shorts asks Betsy where the beef is raised. She replies that the beef is raised on her family’s ranch located near Big Timber. The man thinks that is great and proceeds to purchase several different packages of Indreland Angus Beef. Selling dry-aged beef directly t
Read MoreCome join us during MSU's Celebrate Ag!! Weekend for our 2nd Annual Collegiate Stockgrower Reception! It will be Friday, October 25 from 5-6pm in the first floor lobby of the Animal Bioscience Building. We will have appetizers and drinks, as well as guest speakers! We will be selling raffle tickets for a CR Morrison Bronze. Contact us at [email protected] or call John Henry at 406-853-4938 for questions or bronze tickets. Hope to see you there! Bring a friend, or two!
Read MoreKiley Martinell of Choteau, recently joined the Montana Beef Council Board as a representative for Montana Stockgrowers. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the MSGA for nominating me for the position on the Montana Beef Council Board. I grew up on a farm/ranch in Choteau, and my interests always tended to lean toward the animal side of my family’s operation. I attended college at MSU-Bozeman, where I earned a degree in Animal Science and met my future husband Heath Martinell. Upon graduation, I worked for Trans Ova Genetics as a bovine embryologist. After four years with Trans Ova we decided it was t
Read More[caption id="attachment_705" align="alignright" width="199"] Sarah Calhoun, Founder - Red Ants Pants[/caption] Montana Stockgrowers and Montana CattleWomen are excited to announce an entertaining and motivational speaker for the 129th Annual Convention and Trade Show, which takes place December 12-14 at Holiday Inn Grand MT in Billings. Sarah Colhoun, founder of Red Ants Pants, brings her experiences of starting and running a small business with some creative ways of ma
Read MoreLisa Murray RD, Montana Beef Council Meeting a beef producer, stepping into his pastures and touring the ranch, isn’t the everyday norm for the dietetic intern students at Montana State University. Yet for these soon to be Registered Dietitians (RD) and nutrition experts, recently they followed the “life of a steak” at the Stovall Ranch in Billings. Most of today’s consumers are several generations removed from rural America and two-thirds of consumers do not know a farmer or rancher. This disconnect results in a lack of understanding and in some cases an acceptance of misinformation, about food produc
Read MoreSeveral opportunities have recently opened up for young producers to gain experience in the cattle industry on a larger scale. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) has announced internship opportunities for both short- and semester-long positions. The deadlines are coming up soon. Be sure to apply today. Internships are a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and broaden your horizons within the industry. Even if you have grown up in the ranching business. gaining exposure and awareness of how the industry operates on the national level is a valuable learning opportunity. Spring and Summer Public Policy Internships (NCBA) government affairs office in Washington, D.C., is accepting applications for spring and summer 2014 public policy internships. The deadline to submit an application for these opportunit
Read More[caption id="attachment_698" align="alignright" width="275"] Click for link to Rancher Relief Fund[/caption] In wake of the devastating
Read MoreNCBA Press Release DENVER - Seven cattle operations from across the country were recognized as 2013 regional Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) winners during the 2013 Cattle Industry Summer Conference in Denver, Colo., today. The seven regional winners will compete for the national ESAP award, which will be announced during the 2014 Cattle Industry Annual Convention and Trade Show in Nashville, Tenn. ESAP, now in its 23rd year, was created to recognize beef producers who make environmental stewardship a priority on their farms and ranches while they also improve prod
Read MoreOn any ranch, there are countless stories to be told. Get out your video cameras and help tell the story of Montana family ranching to the world. Create a documentary, photo slide shows, or how-to videos. As long as it involves ranching, we'll take it. The videos will then be published on the MSGA YouTube channel and Facebook page. Your online vote, along with votes at
Read MoreMontana Ford dealerships have been a great supporter of Montana ranching families. Thanks to Lauren Chase for putting together this great video. [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VH-0_DMnchw] One lucky MSGA member will win a 2013 Ford F250 Super Duty truck at the annual convention, December 12-14. Keep an eye out for more details. Click here to join MSGA today.
Read MoreThis week's government shutdown has directly impacted several federal programs funded by appropriations. Those programs deemed essential to national security or funded by user fees will continue operating, some on a reduced basis. Most other employees have been affected by furloughs. (Source: USDA) The following USDA activities will continue: Meat, poultry and processed egg inspection services. Grain and other commodity inspection, weighing and grading services funded by user fees. Inspections for import and export activities to prevent the introduction and dissemination of pests into and out of the U.S. Forest Service law enforcement and emergency and natural disaster response efforts. Continuity and maintenance of some research measurements and research-related infrastructure, such as germplasm, seed storage, and greenhouses. C
Read MoreThe Montana Beef Ambassadors traveled to Springdale, Arkansas to compete for the 2014 National Beef Ambassador team on September 27-28. Allie Nelson (Senior) and Elizabeth Armstrong (Junior) both competed and represented Montana well. Contestants from 23 different states, including 22 Seniors and 12 Juniors, joined together at the competition which included events in Issues Response, Media Interview, Consumer Promotion, and Youth Presentation. The 2014 National Beef Ambassador team was announced Saturday evening and includes Justana Von Tate, Texas; Emma Morris, California; Rachael Wolters, Tennessee; Tori Summey, Arizona and Sierra Jepsen, Ohio. Participants began the weekend of events on Friday with a tour of the Tyson Innovations Center and Jac's Ranch. The event was highlighted with great insights shared by American National Cattlewomen President Barbara Jackson,
Read MoreRegister now for the Young Ag Leadership Conference (YALC), set to take place October 11-13 at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. The YALC is a collaborative effort between nine of Montana’s agricultural organizations, offering attendees a chance to discuss current ag issues, take part in various workshops, meet with industry leaders and network with fellow young people who live Montana agriculture. Anyone aged 18-40 and interested or involved in any facet of agriculture is encouraged to attend. The conference is put together by a committee of representatives from each of the following: Montana Agri-Business Association, Montana Cattlemen’s Association, Montana 4-H Foundation, Montana FFA Foundation, Montana Farm Bureau Federation, Montana Farmers Union, Montana Grain Growers Association, Montana State University College of Agriculture, and the Montana Stockgrowers Associatio
Read MoreMontana ranchers can once again donate steers to Montana State University. The Steer-A-Year program is back for the 2013-14 school year. --MSU News Service BOZEMAN – Montana State University has resumed its Steer-A-Year program after a one-year hiatus. Montana ranchers who want to donate a steer to benefit students in MSU’s College of Agriculture should contact Extension Beef Cattle Specialist Rachel Endecott. Steers will be accepted Oct. 14 through 18. They will be housed and fed to finish at the Bozeman Agriculture Research and Teaching Farm west of Bozeman. Donors will be honored at MSU’s Celebrate Agriculture!! on Oct. 25 and 26, Endecott said. Performance data (28-day gains and carcass performance) from the steers will be collected throughout the school year. The top feeder steer and
Read MoreThe Fred Wacker family and Cross Four Ranch recently were recognized with the Ag Producer of the Year award for the Miles City area. The annual award, given by the Miles City Chamber of Commerce, recognizes a family or agriculture operation in Southeastern Montana who exemplify good agricultural production practices and a long-term commitment to the community. Wacker is a third-generation Montana rancher. Cross Four Ranch operates in Custer and Rosebud Counties as a cow/calf, yearling, and a finished cattle operation. The entire Wacker family is involved in the operation and specializes in All Natural Cattle. Fred and his wife, Gwen, have four adult children: Sara Rehm, Julie Nowicki, Karen Martin, and Mike Wacker.
Read MoreDEADWOOD, S.D. (Sept. 9, 2013) – Public Lands Council (PLC) this Saturday wrapped up its 2013 Annual Meeting in Deadwood, S.D. Over 100 ranchers with public lands grazing rights in states across the West gathered to discuss matters affecting their industry and to consider projects and policies that will guide the organization’s future activities. “Since 1968, PLC has been the voice in Washington, DC for ranchers who operate on public lands,” said Brice Lee, PLC President and a cattle rancher of Hesperus, Colo. “Each year, leaders of our industry meet in order to set priorities and discuss strategies that will help PLC provide a stable business environment for our members. This is important work: at stake is the health of the economies and landscapes of the West.” The meeting kicked off on Wednesday evening with a welcome barbecue featuring guest speaker South Dakota Secretary of Agricul
Read MoreMontana Stockgrowers Association will honor one of its members as “Ranching Woman of the Year” during Annual Convention in Billings, December 12-14. Please email Katie Stokes your nomination by November 1 with a letter of why you feel your Ranching Woman should be recognized.
Read MoreThe 2013-2014 Seedstock and Commercial Cattle Directory is in! You’ll find information on Montana ranches, specifics on each ranch’s cattle, contact information, sale dates and much more! Be on the look out for your copy in the mail. If you don’t receive one, and would like one, call the MSGA office: (406) 442-3420.
Read MoreWASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steve Daines today announced that the House Natural Resources Committee will hold a field hearing in Billings on September 4, 2013 to hear from local land users about the potential impacts of listing the Greater Sage Grouse under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the implications it holds for Montana’s economy and habitat. The hearing, which Daines requested last week, will also focus on state and local efforts in land management to conserve species and balance responsible resource development and land use. Daines will be joined by Natural Resources Chairman Doc Hastings (WA-04), Congressman Kevin Cramer (ND-AL) and Congresswoman Cynthia Lummis (WY-AL). “As a fifth-generation Montanan, I kn
Read MoreAs the average age of our ranching community grows older, opportunities for younger generations to learn valuable skills become increasingly important. One of the best avenues for younger ranchers to gain insight is through mentorship experiences. To facilitate this, MSGA is launching a Mentorship Program to pair a member of the Collegiate and Young Stockgrowers with a mentor in a similar field within the Montana beef industry. Mentor groups will be expected to communicate periodically and meet in person throughout the year. The hope is to build informal relationships where young producers can develop life skills and learning opportunities through one-on-on
Read MoreIt’s time to register for 2013 Annual National PLC Meeting! This year’s meeting will be in Deadwood, SD, September 4-7. The meeting will start with a welcome barbecue on Wednesday, Sept. 4, followed by two days of informative meetings and wrap up on Saturday the 7th with an optional bus tour of the Black Hills, including Mt. Rushmore. This year’s meeting will include presentations from top ranking agency officials from BLM and the Forest Service, legislative and legal issues updates and policy development. Please consider attending this meeting and become better informed on the issues that affect federal grazing permittees. For more information or to register, Click here to go to the Public Lands Council website. For additional details, contact Jay at the MSGA office.
Read MoreThis year's Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) and Montana CattleWomen (MCW) Annual Convention and Trade Show, held at Holiday Inn Grand MT in Billings, will have something for everyone. Mark your calendars for December 12-14, 2013. The Convention offers opportunities for attendees to learn tips to improve their ranch or business, find out about new products available for their animal health and ranch supply needs at the Trade Show, and for members to weigh in on policy discussions. Agenda and details for registration will be released soon.
Read MoreFollow the Montana Stockgrowers on Pinterest for all our latest pins, including working ranch photos, beef recipes and all sorts of cattle fun!
Read MoreMSGA announced today that the LaSalle Ranch of Havre has been selected winner of the 2013-2014 Montana Environmental Stewardship Award, sponsored by MSGA’s Research, Education and Endowment Foundation, funded by Montana Beef Producers with Checkoff Dollars. LaSalle Ranch is a cow/calf and yearling operation mostly located within the boundaries of the Rocky Boys Indian Reservation. The LaSalles are members of the Chippewa Cree Tribe and the first Native American winners of this award. (more…)
Read MoreLearn how you can reach our members with advertisements for your products or services by reviewing the 2013 MSGA Advertiser's Rate Card and Publication Schedule!
Read MoreMontana State University Extension has released "Bovine Trichomoniasis: Fact Sheet for Montana Cattle Producers" online. This fact sheet was compiled by Dr. Rachel Endecott, MSU Extension Beef Cattle Specialist, and chair of MSGA's Education and Research subcommittee, along with Dr. Tahnee Szymanski, Montana Department of Livestock Staff Veterinarian. The fact sheet provides information about about the disease trichomoniasis, how it affects cattle, prevention tips, and regulations for reporting and management of the disease in Montana.
Read MoreThe 2012 Montana Seedstock & Commercial Cattle Directory is available in print as well as online. Click here to view the Directory online. If you would like to have a hard copy mailed to you, please email [email protected].
Read MoreIn October 2012, the Montana Stockgrowers Association released Big Sky Boots: Working Seasons of a Montana Cowboy, a coffee table photography book featuring the work of MSGA’s multimedia outreach specialist, Lauren Chase. Chase spent a year and a half gathering photographs for the book, traveling in sunshine and snow to ranches across Montana. The book takes the reader on a journey through a year in the life of Montana’s cowboys—through calving, branding, and shipping, and everything in between. “Our goal with this project has been to create a unique, fun, engaging and interac
Read MoreThe mySPCC Suite of Guidance Materials is an exciting new suite of web-based tools--the second generation of guidance developed exclusively to assist agricultural retailers with implementing their Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasures (SPCC) Plan. mySPCC was named for its unique ability to personalize the SPCC Plan to a specific facility and provide a great starting point in the facility's SPCC compliance effort.
Read MoreMSGA still has copies of "The Weak Ones Turned Back, The Cowards Never Started: A Century of Ranching in Montana" available. The book features 142 Montana ranches that were 100 years or older in 2009. Copies are $50 each, including shipping and handling. Click below to download the order form which you can call, fax, or mail in. Book Order Form
Read MoreHelena - On Monday, July 18, the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) will present a proposal to the state Land Board that would double the grazing fee for ranchers with state land leases. The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is encouraging the Land Board to hold the line on the fees. “This proposal increases the cost of doing business in Montana,” said Jay Bodner, MSGA’s Natural Resource Director. “During the legislative session earlier in the year, both the governor and the legislative leadership made it clear they didn’t want to raise taxes or fees on anyone in these uncertain economic times. This proposal doesn’t fit with that position.” (more…)
Read MoreThe Petroleum County Conservation District and the Montana Grazinglands Conservation Initiative invite you to “Continue the Montana Legacy of 'The Family Ranch.'” Join them for an afternoon session and supper at the Wrangler in Grass Range on Wednesday, June 1st at 11:00 a.m. Speakers will include Chip Hines and Ron Hanson. Both will discuss ranches in transition from livestock and grazing management to the business and realities of family succession. For more information please call the Petroleum County Conservation District at (406) 429-6646. Start the conversation with your family!
Read MoreBig Sky, Mont. – Representatives of the Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) have been in Big Sky, Mont. this week, at the invitation of U.S. Senator Max Baucus, working to expand trade opportunities for Montana and U.S. beef with the 21 Asia-Pacific member economies attending the 2011 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Trade Ministers meeting. “I’ve fought hard to ensure better market access for Montana beef across Asia and the Montana Stockgrowers Association have been a real partner in the process,” Senator Baucus said. “There’s no doubt, Montana beef is the best in the world and the APEC meetings in Big Sky are the perfect opportunity to spread the word. If we can boost our beef exports to APEC countries, we can strengthen our ranching communities and create good-paying jobs here at home.”
Read MoreThe Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) will hold its Mid-Year Meeting, June 9-10 in Bozeman, Mont. at the Animal BioScience Building on the Montana State University (MSU) campus. The highlight of this year’s meeting will be the Ranch Tour on Thursday afternoon, June 9. The Ranch Tour will begin at 12:45 p.m. departing from the Animal BioScience Building. The tour will feature stops at the MSU’s Bozeman Agricultural Research and Teaching Farm, where participants can view MSU’s current research projects; the 2001 Montana and Regional Environmental Stewardship Award winners, MZ Bar Cattle Co. in Belgrade, to learn about how the Milesnick family has protected riparian areas; Schutter Farms in Manhattan, where local implement dealers will be on hand to demonstrate the features of various tractors and equipment; and the KG Ranch in Three Forks where the group will enjoy dinner, view cattle from priority page buyers of MSG
Read MoreToday the Montana Stockgrowers Association commended Montana Senator and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus for his tireless effort to achieve fair, science-based trade rules for U.S. beef trade with Korea. Senator Baucus has received commitment from the Obama administration, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack, and U.S. Trade Representative Kirk for additional resources to promote the safety and quality of U.S. beef to Korean consumers and to ensure the full application of the U.S.-Korea beef protocol which calls for full access for U.S. beef in Korea. (more…)
Read MoreThe Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) will hold its Mid-Year Meeting, June 9-10 in Bozeman, Mont. at the Animal BioScience Building on the Montana State University (MSU) campus. Mid-Year is one of the two major meetings MSGA holds each year. MSGA members will gather to discuss the issues facing Montana ranching families and set interim policy to guide the association through the rest of the year. The highlight of this year’s meeting will be the Ranch Tour on Thursday afternoon, June 9.
Read MoreHelena – On April 14, the Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) attended an open house in Gardiner, Mont. hosted by the Interagency Bison Management Plan partners to discuss their “adaptive management adjustments” that would allow bison to roam freely outside of Yellowstone National Park in the Gardiner basin. A formal agreement on the adjustments was finalized by the partners with no input from the local citizens or area ranchers who would be affected. MSGA’s Executive Vice President, Errol Rice, and chairman of MSGA’s Cattle Health Committee, Dr. Dick Raths, attended the open house to ensure Montana ranchers’ voices were heard on the issue. Several area ranchers joined wi
Read More[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0QfPzdv_oM?fs=1&w=480&h=295]Harriet Gates is a 92-year old rancher from Deer Lodge, Montana. She is living in a house that her grandfather built in 1856 and remembers what ranch life was like back in the early part of 1900s. Harriet loves being raised on the ranch and is still one, tough cowgirl.To see photos from from the visit, click here.
Read MoreHelena – The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) recently nominated Keystone Ranches, Inc. and the Bill Almy family of Ismay, Mont. for the 2011 regional and national Environmental Stewardship Award sponsored by Dow AgroSciences, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, the
Read MoreThe Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is offering two great scholarships for MSGA member students. For graduating high school seniors, MSGA is offering the Swede Schlesinger Scholarship worth $2,500. To be eligible for this scholarship students must be graduating from a Montana high school this year, be a member of MSGA, or have at least one parent who is a member, and demonstrate a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. Applicants must complete the application form, include a copy of their current high school transcript, include three sealed letters of recommendation, and answer a series of essay questions. Applications are due March 31. (more…)
Read MoreStevenson Angus Ranch held its spring production sale on March 10, 2011 in Hobson, MT. Darrell Stevenson was back from Russia, where he took cattle herds to establish American-style ranching. MSGA's executive vice president, Errol Rice, attended the sale and was interviewed by
Read MoreSitz Angus Ranch in Dillon & Harrison, Montana had their 9th annual bull sale on March 9, 2011. It was the ranch's best sale on record, with the top bull selling for more than $50,000. Check out the
Read MoreAUDIO SLIDE SHOW: Watch and hear Angus bulls being sold at the Mussard Family sale in Dillon, Montana. There is also a speech from NCBA president, Bill Donald and some dancing at the end of the night, after a great sale. To see photos from the sale, head over to the Montana Stockgrowers Association's Facebook page: click here
Read MoreYesterday, Lauren Chase had the opportunity to spend the day at Bill Donald's Montana ranch, Cayuse Livestock Co. Bill is the current president of the
Read MoreSitz Angus Ranch has a great reputation of having some of the best Angus genetics. February is calving season and MSGA's Multimedia Outreach Specialist, Lauren Chase, was able to spend a few days with the crew. To find out more information about Sitz Angus Ranch, check out their website: Sitz Angus Ranch.
Read MoreEhlke Herefords in Townsend, Montana is a family-owned ranch that focuses on the female. Mark, Della, Jane'a and Lacey work the ranch with Ryan Hamilton. The Ehlke Family is a great group of people and have worked hard to develop the Hereford breed.
Read More[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEEDsbqGPqA?fs=1&w=425&h=344]Montana Stockgrowers Association past president, Bill Donald became NCBA's president this week in Denver. You can watch his speech from the annual membership meeting where he officially grabbed the presidential reins.
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MFBF - Twenty young farmers and ranchers from across the state had the opportunity to sit in on hearings, have breakfast with legislators and meet with various state agencies during the Montana Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers (MFBF YF&R) and/Montana Young Stockgrower’s Calling on the Capitol Feb. 24-25 in Helena. “The legislative breakfast provided a great opportunity to sit down and visit with your local legislator about any concerns,” noted Aaron Phipps, who si
Read MoreMSGA’s Research, Education, and Endowment Foundation (REEF) is accepting applications to send one participant to the Young Cattlemen’s Conference tour, held June 2-9. The tour exposes young cattlemen to all areas of the cattle industry ranging from industry structure to issues management, from production research to marketing, and is designed to develop leadership qualities. Many past attendees from Montana have described this tour as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.” (Including last year’s participant, Tater Erickson who is pictured at right with Melville,
Read MoreHelena - The Montana Stockgrowers Association’s Young Stockgrowers and Montana Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmers and Ranchers will meet in Helena, Jan. 24-25, for the 2011 “Calling on the Capitol.” This year’s event is the first joint conference for the associations. “MSGA and MFBF are looking forward to bringing young farmers and ranchers to Helena to see the 62nd session of the Montana Legislature,” said Peter Taylor, chair of MFBF’s Young Farmers and Ranchers. “Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with the leaders of both associations, the legislature and our state agencies,” said Charlie Rein, chair of MSGA’s Young Stockgrowers. The “Calling on the Capitol” will feature visits with President of the Senate, Senator Jim Peterson (R-Buffalo); Speaker of the House, Representative Mike Milburn (R-Cascade); a tour of the Capitol; meetings wit
Read MoreThe 126th Annual Montana Stockgrowers Association Convention and Trade Show, held at the Crowne Plaza hotel and MetraPark in Billings, Dec. 16-18, drew over 600 participants from across the state. “We had another great convention this year,” said Tom Hougen, MSGA’s out-going president. “With the great cattle market we’ve had, everyone seemed to be in high spirits. We had one of the most robust policy discussions I can remember, developing policy on a wide variety of issues that affect family ranches in Montana. Convention attendees also got to enjoy our top-notch trade show and the Chase Hawks Rough Stock Rodeo.” Here are some of the highlights: -Walter “Watty” Taylor, of Kirby was elected President; Tucker Hughes of Stanford was elected 1st Vice President; and Gene Curry of Valier was elected 2nd Vice President. - Je
Read MoreThe Montana Department of Livestock’s public meeting on the Designated Surveillance Area (DSA) administrative rule, originally scheduled for November 23, has been rescheduled for 3 p.m., January 4 at the Twin Bridges Fairgrounds. Public comment on the proposed rule has been extended to January 10, and the Board of Livestock will consider the rule at its meeting on January 17-18 in Helena. For additional information about the meeting or DSA, please refer to the department’s web site at http://liv.mt.gov.
Read MoreVideo highlights from this year's convention, trade show, and Chase Hawks Memorial Rodeo. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSTxB7OGWys?fs=1&w=425&h=344]
Read MoreIntroduction of MSGA's President Watty Taylor:[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ews2hpDoY_Q&fs=1&hl=en_US]
Read MoreDuring the summer of 2010, MSGA was fortunate to have Lauren Chase from the University of Iowa as our multimedia communications intern. Lauren spent the summer traveling to ranches across the state and putting together short video profiles of ranchers and informative issues-oriented features. This video is Lauren's honor's project for her broadcast journalism and anthropology majors. It highlights family ranches in Montana with interviews and footage of summer ranching life. The ranchers discuss their desire to pass the ranch on to the next generation, and the environmental and economic issues they deal with on a day-to-day basis. Also, a wildlife biologist from the USDA's NRCS, discusses the importance of ranchers for supporting biodiversity on rangeland in Montana. Congratulations to Lauren for completing this culminating project from a fantastic summer. Thanks to MSGA's Research, Education, and Endowment Foundation for funding the internship. Below are Parts 1 and 2. (If you can't s
Read MoreThis year’s Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) and Montana CattleWomen (MCW) Annual Convention and Trade Show, Dec. 16-18 in Billings, will have something for everyone. The Convention will offer opportunities for attendees to learn tips to improve their ranch or business, find out about new products available for their animal health and ranch supply needs at the Trade Show, and for members to weigh in on policy discussions. Members who attend Annual Convention will be eligible to win a 2011 Ford Super Duty truck from the Montana Ford Stores and receive discounted tickets to the Chase Hawks Memorial Association Rough Stock Rodeo on Saturday, Dec. 18. The MSGA/MCW Annual Convention will provide excellent educational opportunities on a number of topics important to Montana’s ranching families. Travis Choat, PhD with Elanco Animal Health will kick off the Opening General Session on Friday, Dec. 17 with a presentation ab
Read MoreThe following is a statement from Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) Executive Vice President, Errol Rice, on Senator Baucus’ efforts in the U.S.-Korea beef negotiations this week:“MSGA would like to commend Senator Max Baucus for his efforts this week to ensure more access for U.S. and Montana beef into South Korea’s marketplace as a condition to ratifying a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.MSGA’s mission is to protect and enhance Montana ranch families’ ability to grow and deliver safe, healthy and environmentally wholesome beef to the world. While Montana’s family ranchers are pleased with the recovery in beef exports to Korea that has occurred under the U.S.-Korea beef agreement since the market re-opened in the summer of 2008, we are confident that the high quality and safety of our beef deserves more recognition by many trading partners, including South Korea. We greatly appreciate Senator Baucus’ efforts on this important and
Read MoreThe International Mountain Section (IMS) of the Society for Range Management (SRM) is hosting a day-long meeting focused on Rangeland Livestock Production: Surviving Difficult Economic Times on November 19th, 2010 at the Great Falls Hampton Inn. The International Mountain Section of SRM is one geographic section that encompasses western Montana and Alberta. IMS is hosting this session as part of their Fall Meeting, which rotates back and forth between western Montana and Alberta. The day-long program will focus on rangeland management strategies that have aided ranchers in surviving the fluctuating economy. The program will include university researchers, Extension personnel, and Montana ranchers. Extension personnel and university researchers will provide insight into the economic benefits of managing pastures in fair to good range condition versus excellent condition, the sociological effects of the economy on rural
Read MoreHelena - The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) recently announced its support of several congressional bills seeking to remove the gray wolf from the list of endangered species and return management to the state of Montana.“The bottom line for us is to get wolves off the endangered species list so ranchers can have more tools to deal with increasing wolf populations and livestock depredations,” said Errol Rice, executive vice president of the Montana Stockgrowers Association. “We feel this is the opportune time for Congress to gain momentum on this important issue, now and into the next Congress.”In late October, MSGA joined thirteen livestock groups in writing a letter of support for H.R. 6028 sponsored by Congressman Edwards D-TX, with 14 co-sponsors including Montana Congressman Denny Rehberg, and S. 3919 sponsored by Senator Orrin Hatch R-UT along with four co-sponsors, which seek to remove the gray wolf from the endangered species list. Other
Read More[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhLVKNtlx9Q&fs=1&hl=en_US]Melville, Mont. rancher, Chuck Rein, explains why Montana Ballot Initiative I-161, which seeks to abolish all outfitter-sponsored hunting licenses, is a bad initiative. On Novemember 2, please vote "No" on I-161. Click here for MSGA's Statement on I-161 and a history of outfitter-sponsored licences.
Read MoreThe Western Sustainability Exchange is hosting three workshops on ranching profitability. Learn the three “secrets” for increasing profit and how to use production, economic and financial benchmarks to identify profit drivers and “Dead Wood.” You’ll find out what you can do to improve your triple bottom line.Dave Pratt, who has taught the Ranching For Profit School for almost 20 years, will discuss core Ranching For Profit concepts at each of these workshops. He will introduce you to the three secrets for increasing profit and show you a simple method for “crunching” the numbers. Dave will introduce you to several simple but powerful benchmarks for comparing key performance indicators on your ranch to other profitable ranches. You will also learn how to increase profit by structuring your operation to be in sync with natural cycles.The Ranching For Profit School has helped thousands of ranchers on four
Read MoreThe Montana Department of Livestock will hold a series of public meetings about codifying into administrative rule the official order that created the Designated Surveillance Area for brucellosis.Meetings have been scheduled for: · Livingston – 3 p.m., November 9, Livingston Public Library. · Three Forks – 3 p.m., November 10, Headwaters Livestock Auction. · Twin Bridges – 3 p.m., November 23, Twin Bridges Fairgrounds.The Designated Surveillance Area (DSA) was created by official order in January 2010 when its predecessor, the Brucellosis Action Plan, expired. Both the Action Plan and DSA were created and implemented to help the state regain and maintain its brucellosis-free status after the disease was found twice in a 12-month period (May 2007, May 2008).State Veterinarian Dr. Marty Zaluski said codifying the DSA order into rule appears appropriate “given the long-term challenges of managing brucellosis.”“The official order
Read MoreThe Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) will hold its 126th Annual Convention and Trade Show at the Crowne Plaza hotel and the MetraPark in Billings, Dec. 16-18. This year, the convention will be held in conjunction with the Chase Hawks Memorial Association’s 16th Annual Rough Stock Rodeo on Dec. 18 with rodeo cowboys and rough stock coming directly from the just-concluded National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Proceeds from the rodeo benefit the Chase Hawks Memorial Association Community Crisis Fund which provides short-term assistance to families facing an immediate crisis. Discounted tickets for the rodeo and other events will be available for MSGA members.“We are very excited to be partnering with the Chase Hawks Memorial Associatio
Read MoreThe Giving Back Foundation (GBF) is holding its first annual online auction fundraiser. The Giving Back Foundation, founded by singer/songwriter T.J. Casey, is based on the unchanging, unwritten cowboy code of neighbor helping neighbor, and is dedicated to America’s ag producers. “Mother Nature makes no provisions for the blood, sweat and tears farmers and ranchers put into keeping an outfit together,” said Casey. “When nature’s devastation hits, it can wipe that operation out completely. That’s where the Giving Back Foundation can help. We don’t want anyone leaving agriculture due to a natural disaster.”In order to have reserves for potential needs, the Giving Back Foundation has a number of items on its website, wwww.ranchersandfarmers.org, up for auction including a limited edition Martin DX 175th Anniversary Guitar donated by Martin Guitar. The DX 175th Anniversary Model is a Limited Edition with anniversary artwork created by artist Robert Goetzl. The inspired graphics
Read More[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQ-ETuFpAEA&fs=1&hl=en_US]In this week's MSGA Friday Video Update, Executive Vice President, Errol Rice, discusses MSGA's recent trip to Washington, D.C. to discuss the federal estate tax and the Antiquities Act with members of Congress. Rice also discusses BLM Director Robert Abbey's visit to Malta to discuss the possibility of a National Monument designation in the area, MSGA hosting a group of foreign ambassadors to encourage increased beef trade with countries like China and Japan, and the National Public Lands Council meeting in Pendleton, Oregon.
Read MoreRegister now for the 2010 Young Ag Leadership Conference (YALC) October 1-3 at the Rock Creek Resort in Red Lodge. This unique conference—a partnership between seven of Montana’s primary agricultural groups—allows young producers from throughout the state to come together across organization and commodity lines for hands-on workshops, discussion groups and networking. The conference is designed for anyone ages 18-40 who is involved with or concerned about Montana’s agricultural industry. Confere
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Comments Needed on New State Land Access Program Rule
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission is seeking comment on a proposed rule that would offer tax incentives to private landowners who provide public access to state lands. The proposed rule is in response to a new law that established the Unlocking State Lands Program. Under the program, landowners can receive a $500 tax credit by providing public access to a parcel of state land through contractual agreements with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. A tax credit would be offered for each qual
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