Paul Harvey’s So God Made a Farmer, presented at the 1978 National FFA Convention, brings tears to the eyes of those of us who know those men (and women). Many of us can picture our fathers, grandfathers, husbands and sons in that exact role, exhibiting strength and fortitude to carry the weight of their operations, their livelihood and their families on their shoulders, seemingly tirelessly.

The Montana Historical Society is now accepting applications for the Centennial Farm and Ranch program. New inductees will receive a framed certificate signed by the governor, recognition at the “Ag Day” ceremony in the State Capitol during the 2021 legislative session, the ranch/ farm history printed online and in our periodic Centennial Farm and Ranch yearbook, and a durable roadside sign.

In March, Montana Farmers Union members and staff attended the 118th national Farmers Union Convention in Savannah, GA. More than 500 Farmers Union members from across the country convened. The delegation elected Rob Larew to succeed Roger Johnson as president and re-elected Patty Edelburg to serve as NFU vice president. “The reason for Farmers Union’s longstanding success — and the

A group of individuals and organizations from across Montana, led by Montana State University Extension, are collaborating to provide resources and solutions for farmers and ranchers under stress. “We know from various research that there is a high level of stress in life, specifically among farmers and ranchers in rural areas like Montana,” said Michelle Grocke, health and wellness specialist

penhaver. Delegates representing Montana included Jeri Copenhaver, Helena; Tyce Erickson, Dutton; Lilly Green, Great Falls; Kirby Hancock, Bozeman; Cory Kelly, Chester; Paul Neubauer, Havre; Maggie Shane, Floweree; Walter Schweitzer, Geyser; Will Downs, Molt; and Jan Tusick, Polson. Each year, MFU takes a youth delegate to expose them to the policy making process and provide a voice for the

to suicide prevention best practices — we can start some crucial conversations about mental health in rural Montana, reduce stigma and save lives.” Darla Tyler-McSherry, a member of the Montana Farm/Ranch Stress Prevention Advisory Council and director of student health at Montana State University Billings, said goals for the website include bringing attention to the issue of suicide in

U.S. Senator Jon Tester today announced that the Small Business Administration declared an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration for 30 Montana counties in response to the outbreak of the 2019 novel coronavirus, which will provide much-needed economic support for Montana’s main street businesses. The affected counties are: Flathead, Gallatin, Missoula, Sheridan, Silver Bow, Wheatland,

Governor Steve Bullock announced a set of directives and guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and protect vulnerable Montanans Sunday, including closing of public K-12 schools, social distancing measures and limiting visitation at nursing home facilities. Bullock has directed Montana’s public K-12 schools to close starting on Monday, March 16, and remain closed through March 27.

Region 6 Fish, Wildlife and Parks offices are open. However, due to the “social distancing” measures that are being taken, expect to abide by the following: If you can, please use the internet to buy your licenses and apply for permits. This way, there is no social interaction necessary. If you feel ill or have any symptoms, respect our staff and others by not entering an FWP building. Call 228-3700