Put Your Cattle to the Test and Invest in Montana Agriculture
Montana ranchers have the opportunity to put their cattle to the test, gain valuable performance and carcass data, compete for prizes and support the next generation of Montana agriculture through the Montana Stockgrowers Foundation’s (MSF) 2026 Cattle Drive program.
Now accepting donations through December 15, 2026, the MSF Cattle Drive is Montana’s largest steer feedout contest and offers ranchers a unique opportunity to turn one steer into an investment in both their operation and Montana’s agricultural future.
Donate a steer or the market value of a steer today. Ranchers can also team up with friends, neighbors or other producers to participate.
Donated steers will be transported to Yellowstone Cattle Feeders in Shepherd, Montana, where they will be fed to ideal market weight before being sold and harvested. Proceeds from the program support MSF initiatives, including educational scholarships and leadership development opportunities for Montana’s agricultural community.
More than just a feedout contest, the Cattle Drive program gives ranchers the opportunity to learn more about how their cattle perform while competing for valuable prizes. Donors receive:
- Average daily gain (ADG) and carcass data on their donated steer
- NEOGEN Igenity® and Igenity® BCHF genomic test results
- Custom Cattle Drive apparel
- A chance to win the overall grand prize
- Opportunities to earn incentive prizes from participating Montana breed associations
- A charitable tax deduction
The competition culminates in the selection of the Champion Steer, the steer that places highest in both the ADG and carcass value contests. The top three steers in both the ADG and carcass value categories will also be recognized during the Montana Stockgrowers Association’s 2027 Annual Convention and Trade Show. More than $19,000 in cash and prizes are up for grabs.
Whether you donate a steer yourself or partner with another rancher, the Cattle Drive is a chance to put your cattle to the test, gain valuable information and help invest in Montana’s next generation of agricultural leaders.
Donations are being accepted through December 15, 2026, and animal pickup will begin in mid-October. Don’t miss your opportunity to participate in the 2026 Cattle Drive.
Donate a steer or the market value of a steer today at www.mtcattledrive.org
Questions or ready to participate? Contact the Montana Stockgrowers Foundation at [email protected] or (406) 442-3420.
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.
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
Director of Marketing & Communications
(406) 442-3420
To view more MSGA news, visit https://mtbeef.org/news/
