The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is pleased to announce its 2026 Board of Directors. Composed of 13 members, including two directors from each district and three elected officers, the board represents ranching families from across Montana. MSGA directors volunteer their time and travel across the state to participate in meetings, providing leadership and ensuring the interests of ranchers are heard. Newly elected directors include:
North Central District Director – Rocky Forseth, Fairfield
Rocky Forseth is a third-generation rancher. His registered SimAngus seedstock operation focuses on genetic improvement through embryo transfer, artificial insemination, and advanced genomic technology for commercial clients. In addition, Rocky and his wife operate a custom backgrounding enterprise, developing feeder cattle and replacement heifers. Rocky also serves as an independent marketing representative for Allied Genetic Resources and Superior Livestock Auction.
North Central District Director – Kevin Elias, Chinook
Kevin Elias has been running a family ranch north of Chinook with his wife, Jennifer, since 2013. Their operation includes cow/calf pairs, yearlings, and some farming and irrigation primarily for feed. Kevin’s ranching roots run deep, having worked alongside his grandfather before taking on the family operation.
Northeastern District Director – Joe Lewis, Lindsay
Joe Lewis is a fifth-generation rancher on the 52 Ranch, where he has been working full-time for the past five years following his graduation with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business. In addition to ranching, Joe built and recently sold a feed supplement dealership with Nutra-Lix. He works alongside his father in a dedicated family operation and is committed to carrying on the family ranching tradition.
Western District Director – Garrett Harshbarger, Waterloo
Garrett Harsbarger is a third-generation cattle rancher and has owned and operated his ranch for the past six years after buying out his parents. He manages a cow-calf operation and produces hay for winter feed, selling any excess to other ranches. Garrett’s cattle graze on both owned and leased ground during the summer, with primary grazing in the Snowline Grazing Association near Lima, Montana.
Representatives from the Montana CattleWomen and Young Stockgrowers also hold seats on the MSGA board.
Returning board members Include:
- President – Lesley Robinson, Dodson
- 1st Vice President – Turk Stovall, Billings
- 2nd Vice President – Monty Lesh, Miles City
- Northeastern Director – Chance Wilson, Scobey
- Western Director – Jim Garrison, Glen
- South Central Director – Kirk Donsbach, Roy
- South Central Director – Ian Glennie, Judith Gap
- Southeastern Director – Ty Jones, Miles City
- Southeastern Director – Cory Schultz, Billings
- Young Stockgrowers Chair – Cameron Wolenetz, Ekalaka
- Montana CattleWomen President – Vikki Taylor, Miles City
Each director will serve up to two consecutive two-year terms, officers will serve up to two consecutive one-year terms.
The Montana Stockgrowers Association is a grassroots membership organization and is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers. With over 140 years of history, MSGA advocates and ensures cattle ranching remains relevant, safe and a sustainable way of life for generations to come.
MEDIA CONTACT
Keni Reese Lairy
Director of Marketing & Communications
(406) 442-3420
