Montana’s livestock producers gathered in Great Falls, Montana, May 27–29 for the Montana Stockgrowers Association’s (MSGA) 142nd MidYear Meeting. The annual event brought together ranchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and partners from across the state to discuss key issues impacting Montana’s livestock industry, hear from industry experts, and participate in MSGA’s grassroots policy process.
The meeting opened with keynote speaker Dougie Hall, professional saddle bronc rider, entrepreneur, actor, and cast member of the hit television series Landman. Hall shared a motivational message focused on how life’s challenges and experiences shaped him into the person he is today. Drawing from his experiences in rodeo, business, and entertainment, Hall encouraged attendees to maintain a positive attitude and continue to push themselves outside of their comfort zone to encourage personal growth.
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Vice President Skye Krebs provided an update on recent federal policy decisions positively affecting cattle producers. Krebs highlighted industry successes, including the emphasized roll of beef in the recently released Dietary Guidelines for Americans, passage of the Farm Bill, and victories made in rolling back harmful public land management rules.
Members also heard from Montana officials Senator Tim Sheehy, Representative Troy Downing, and Commissioner James Brown, who discussed their ongoing work on behalf of rural communities and the state’s livestock producers.
Highlighting one of Great Falls’ most popular attractions, Sarah Adcock, Associate Curator of the C.M. Russell Museum, explored the life and lasting impact of Charles M. Russell on Montana and the livestock industry. Adcock featured Waiting on a Chinook, a treasured Russell piece owned by MSGA, and discussed its significance on Russell’s early career. She also shared the stories behind several of Russell’s most influential works and their connection to Montana’s ranching heritage.
The meeting concluded with meteorologist Brian Bledsoe, who provided attendees with a weather outlook for the summer season and into the fall. Through MSGA’s exclusive member benefit, the Ranch Weather Radar program, Bledsoe continues to deliver weather insights tailored specifically to Montana livestock producers, helping them make informed decisions for their operations on a monthly basis.
The Montana Stockgrowers Foundation hosted its annual Sunset Banquet during the MidYear Meeting, where attendees raised more than $20,000 in support of the Foundation’s mission to ensure the future of Montana’s cattle industry through producer and public education, leadership development, and promotion of MSGA programs.
For more information on MSGA or the MidYear Meeting, visit www.mtbeef.org.
The Montana Stockgrowers Association is a grassroots membership organization and is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers. With 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
Director of Marketing & Communications
(406) 442-3420
[email protected]
To view more MSGA news, visit https://mtbeef.org/news/
