The Montana Stockgrowers Foundation (MSF) has distributed $3,250 in its latest round of quarterly grant funding, supporting both classroom-based agricultural education and industry programs that strengthen Montana’s ranching communities.
A portion of this funding was awarded through MSF’s Explore Agriculture Classroom Grant, which helps bring hands-on agricultural learning opportunities into K–12 classrooms. In this cycle, two schools received support for projects designed to connect students with the origins of their food and the role agriculture plays in their daily lives.
Valier Elementary School will provide kindergarten students with the opportunity to interact with a local rancher, where they will learn where their food comes from and participate in hands-on activities such as making homemade raspberry jam and beef tallow candles.
Chester-Joplin-Iverness School will provide family and consumer sciences and agriculture students with a hands-on opportunity to observe the lifecycle of a chick from its earliest stages. Students will care for and monitor the chicks as they progress through key developmental stages to maturity.
In addition to classroom grants, MSF also awarded funding through its general grant program to support the Ranch Boot Camp, hosted by Ranchers Stewardship Alliance and Winnett ACES. Scheduled for May 11–15, 2026, the program provides educational opportunities for participants through expert speakers and collaborative learning experiences. Ranchers Stewardship Alliance works to support multi-generational and beginning ranchers by fostering strong relationships, encouraging stewardship of working landscapes, and promoting vibrant rural communities.
The Explore Agriculture Classroom Grant provides up to $500 per project and is in partnership with Montana Ag in the Classroom. The program is open to K–12 educators and administrators across Montana and supports a wide range of agricultural-focused lessons, projects, and events. Applications are accepted year-round.
MSF’s general grant program distributes funding on a quarterly basis to organizations, programs, and events that strengthen the future of Montana’s cattle industry, support ranching families, and build connections between agriculture and local communities.
To learn more about MSF grant opportunities or to apply, visit www.mtbeeffoundation.org.
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.
The Montana Stockgrowers Foundation (MSF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and was established to ensure the future of Montana’s cattle industry through producer and public education, and promotion of MSGA programs. The Foundation supports the next generation by offering educational programs, academic scholarships and providing leadership opportunities.
MEDIA CONTACT
Keni Reese Lairy
Director of Marketing & Communications
(406) 442-3420
To view more MSGA news, visit https://mtbeef.org/news/
