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Montana Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee Update: Looking Ahead to
Committee Gears
For publishing and advertising information contact:
Rebecca Colnar
Montana Farm Bureau 2024 Impact Report
If you have been reading my editorials this past year, I’ve put many words on paper regarding “grassroots impact” and “the value of membership.” I’m proud to share what our Farm Bureau volunteers, leadership, and staff have accomplished for agriculture and rural Montana during 2024. Farm Bureau is recognized as the Voice of Agriculture® on the national, state, and county level and our voice rang loud and true this year.
Share the Farm Bureau impact with your neighbors and urge them to join us!
During the most recent 105th Annual Convention and Trade Show, Montana Farm Bureau Federation released our 2024 Impact Report which details over 12 pages of the work accomplished by Farm Bureau to safeguard agriculture and support rural Montana communities.
I want to thank our Farm Bureau members, officers, and board members for the thousands of hours of volunteer work and our staff for their dedication that have contributed to the programs in our Impact Report.
Here are some highlights.
GROWING YOUR NETWORK
◾ Events such as our MFBF Annual Convention and Summer Conference
◾ The annual Young Farmer and Rancher Leadership Conference
◾ Students can join one of four Collegiate Young Farmer & Rancher chapters
◾ Local programs organized by 30 County Farm Bureaus
INVESTING IN EDUCATION & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
◾ MFBF and Foundation financial support to send members to the American Farm Bureau Young Farmer & Rancher Leadership Conference
◾ Farm Bureau volunteers in the classroom and Foundation support for accurate agriculture books
◾ County Farm Bureau issue forums and educational events
◾ Our elite Advocate Communicate Educate (ACE) leadership program
◾ Awarding over $14,000 in scholarships
AMPLIFYING GRASSROOTS VOICES
◾ Funding and organizing our Washington D.C. Fly-in and the Women’s Leadership Committee Fly-in
◾ Our grassroots policy development process that guides our advocacy efforts
INVIGORATING RURAL COMMUNITIES
◾ Foundation Mini Grants for local ag promotion and education projects
◾ Our Montana Ag Safety Program
◾ County Farm Bureau Ag Days and Farm Fairs
◾ Our Young Farmer and Rancher Hoofin’ It for Hunger race that has raised over $96,000 for the Montana Food Bank Network
SAFEGUARDING THE AGRICULTURE ECONOMY
◾ Legal advocacy protecting the right to trap and snare coyotes for livestock protection
◾ Protecting senior water rights
◾ Working for state management of Grizzly Bears
◾ Protecting agriculture from increased property taxes
Take a moment to read the details behind these highlights and you will conclude that your organization is providing you with tremendous value. Use this document to share the Farm Bureau impact with your neighbors and urge them to join us to work for sustaining agriculture and rural Montana! Read, print, and share the 2024 MFBF Impact Report - https://mfbf.org/About/ impact-report ◾
SCOTT KULBECK
Executive Vice President, MFBF
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Winter Break with Kids and Critters
BY MARIAH SHAMMEL
That 2-week long “Winter Break” on school calendars across America can mean a lot of things. Most kids think it’s amazing. On the other hand, people without students in their lives would never know it was happening except for the increased number of teenagers hanging around Scheels. For people with kids however, Winter Break is all over the board. It can be a real struggle for some, and a favorite time of year for others. I can stand firmly in either of those camps on any given day.
I love having all the kids at home. Being unscheduled, like not having to be at the bus stop at 7a.m., is worth it. The first few days are blissful, as expected, with all the Christmasy things—sleeping, baking, puzzling, gaming…you know the drill.
Before long though, the walls in our small house slide inward and everyone is up in each other’s business. Lizzie, our 11-year-old regresses to her eave-filled book cave where she surrounds herself with piles of novels and yells at anyone who trudges too close to her door. Benjamin, the eight-year-old socialite, shuffles around lamenting over the woes of being a Bengals fan while begging to call friends. At five, Cora is happy doing anything that has to do with Polly Pockets, unicorns,
and Elsa, her cat. That is, until Colter walks in. At the wise old age of 13, he has fine-tuned the art of knowing exactly which buttons to push to drive Cora to the end of her patience level in thirty seconds. This inevitably ends with whining, high-pitched shrieking, tattle-taleing and me remembering an important chore all four kids need to do outside. Immediately.
It can be utter chaos around here. Throw in some random friends and family members stopping by for the holidays, and you have what I call the “Home Alone moments” where you’re constantly tallying heads to
make sure everyone is accounted for. I never used to understand how a family could forget a kid somewhere. Now I just consider it a true miracle that hasn’t happened to us yet.
Between Christmas chocolate and occasional glasses of wine, I’m pretty good at keeping myself sane and
The Shammel clan of Ben, Colter, Cora and Lizzie enjoying their new friend, Merle.
(mostly) calm while chaos swirls. Favorite Farmer excels at finding projects in the barn and remembering cows that need to be checked. Thankfully, it’s not hard to distract the kids long enough for them to forget why they were ever annoyed by each other. This year, though, we had Super Merle on our side.
In 2024, we spent a lot of time in the shelter belt. When we weren’t re-establishing the deteriorating 100+ year Caragana trees that surround our house, we were digging holes and officiating lots of services for late pets. In fifteen years of living here, neither my better half nor I ever had a pet-vehicle interaction. Now both of us have participated in a cat- involved incident, and let’s just say neither ended well. Of the eight cats that roamed our place, we lost two of our most beloved kid-snugglers, the only two sometimes allowed in the house. Coupled with having to send our 13-year-old dog, Willie, to bark at angels in the heavens and some chickens that are now pecking their way through the sky, it has been a rough year heartbreak-wise for the Shammels. So, when the kids
asked to get a puppy to join our Border Collie, Poppy, we didn’t say no.
We’ve always loved our animals, but Merle (Haggard) has brought a new dynamic to our family. As a smaller dog than we normally gravitate to, he spends more time in the house and the kids have been able to lug him around longer than usual. He somehow knows when they want to snuggle, play or just get in trouble together. Even Favorite Farmer leaves the house later and later each morning because he always seems to “have” to do something else with Merle. It’s crazy how something so small can have such a big impact.
Every winter break is special in its own way. Whether it’s a magical vacation you finally go on, the week you spent with someone special or a little blue-eyed cow chaser who knows what everyone needs among all the chaos. We never know how long each of these moments will last, but we sure love it while we can. ◾
Mariah Shammel ranches in Hilger with her husband, four active kids, and various cows, dogs, and other critters.
Winter Driving Tips to Keep You Safe on the Roads
As winter approaches, the thought of icy roads, heavy snow, and unpredictable weather conditions can make anyone a bit nervous about getting behind the wheel. However, with the right preparation and driving habits, you can stay safe and confident on the road all season long. Here are essential winter driving tips to help you handle winter conditions and ensure you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature brings.
1. PREPARE YOUR VEHICLE FOR WINTER WEATHER
Winterizing your car is the first step to staying safe. Cold temperatures and harsh conditions can put additional stress on your vehicle, so take a few extra steps to prepare.
◾ Check Your Tires: Make sure your tires are in good condition, as tire tread is critical for traction on snow and ice. Consider switching to winter tires, which offer better grip in cold, icy conditions. Additionally, keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure, as cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop.
◾ Test Your Battery: Cold weather can affect battery performance, so it’s wise to have it tested before winter hits. A weak battery is one of the leading causes of breakdowns in the colder months.
◾ Inspect Wipers and Fluids: Visibility is essential for safe driving. Check your windshield wipers and replace
them if they’re worn out. Use a windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures. Also, ensure your vehicle’s antifreeze is at the proper level.
◾ Oil and Filters: Cold weather can thicken your oil, so ensure your car’s oil is the correct type for winter. Check your owner’s manual for recommended oil types and other seasonal maintenance tips.
2. DRIVE CAUTIOUSLY ON WINTER ROADS
No matter how well-prepared your car is, winter driving requires a shift in habits to match road conditions.
◾ Slow Down: Slower speeds give you more control over your vehicle and allow you more time to react to unexpected situations, like a patch of ice or a sudden stop from the car ahead.
◾ Increase Following Distance: Braking distances are significantly longer on snow or ice, so keep a larger gap between you and the vehicle in front of you. This buffer zone gives you more time to stop if necessary.
◾ Brake and Accelerate Gently: Sudden movements can cause your tires to lose grip on slippery surfaces. Instead, apply gentle pressure to the gas and brake pedals to avoid sliding or skidding.
◾ Stay in Control on Icy Roads: If you hit a patch of ice and start to slide, try to stay calm. Avoid
slamming on the brakes and steer gently in the direction you want to go. Sudden braking or turning can worsen the slide.
3. HAVE AN EMERGENCY KIT
Preparation for the unexpected is key in winter driving. Pack an emergency kit in case you get stranded or encounter a breakdown in severe weather.
◾ Essentials to Pack: A warm blanket, flashlight, extra batteries, first aid kit, non-perishable snacks, and bottled water. These basics will keep you safe and comfortable if you have to wait for assistance.
◾ Car Essentials: Keep a snow scraper and small shovel on hand to clear snow and ice from your car. Jumper cables are also handy in case of battery issues, along with a tire inflator or sealant to manage flat tires until you can get help.
◾ Stay Visible: Flares or reflective warning triangles are important for signaling to other drivers or emergency personnel that you need assistance, especially if visibility is low.
The Value of A Local Agent:
There are many uncertainties that come with winter travel. Make sure your car insurance is not one of them.
4. MAKE SURE YOUR AUTO INSURANCE IS UP TO DATE
Winter driving can be risky, so review your auto insurance policy to make sure you’re fully covered. Comprehensive coverage is particularly helpful in winter, as it often covers damage from incidents like hitting a patch of black ice and sliding off the road or being struck by another vehicle in poor visibility. If you’re not sure about your coverage, take time to talk to your insurance agent about what’s included and what additional options might be beneficial for the winter season. Some policies even offer roadside assistance, which can be a lifesaver if you get stuck or stranded.
STAY SAFE AND ENJOY WINTER’S BEAUTY
Winter driving doesn’t have to be daunting. By winterizing your vehicle, driving with caution, and preparing for emergencies, you’re set to stay safe and stress-free on winter roads. Remember, taking a little extra time and care now will pay off in peace of mind all season long. Safe travels! ◾
Contact your local Farm Bureau agent today to be certain you have the coverage you need to stay safe and stress-free this winter season.
Shop Safety Is No Accident
BY DANA JANSEN, DIRECTOR, MONTANA AGRICULTURAL SAFETY PROGRAM
Despite the shorter days and colder temperatures of winter, I’m not sure I’ve ever met a farmer or rancher who simply writes off the opportunities that the “slower” winter days provide. There is always livestock to feed, water to keep open, and a litany of much-needed shop projects. If you plan to spend time in the shop, keep safety in mind when tackling those critical shop projects.
PROPER PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
PPE needs to be selected based on the task at hand, so choose the correct gear for each job. Eye protection, hearing protection, and proper clothing/footwear are considered the minimum for most jobs. Eye protection should be snug fitting and relatively comfortable. All eye protection should be safety rated – ANSI Z87 –and offer protection to the front and side of the eye. Goggles should be used for products that have the potential to splash. Face shields and welding helmets are not a replacement for eye protection but should be used together. Welding goggles/helmets/shields should be of sufficient shade (Shade 5 for plasma and oxyacetylene applications and Shade 10 for most other welding processes). Additional PPE such as respiratory protection, gloves any other special clothing should be in good repair and readily available. Keep long hair tied back, remove all jewelry, and secure or remove any loose clothing.
TOOLS
Select the proper tool for the job. I know the Crescent company did the world a favor when they invented their revolutionary adjustable “hammer,” but using the correct tool for the task will not only make the job quicker and easier, but it will be safer. Return all tools to their designated storage space. Repair or replace all tools at the first signs of decreased performance or visible damage. Use all shields and guards.
CLEAN ENVIRONMENT
Maintain a clean working environment by cleaning up spills when they occur. Avoid leaning items against walls or work surfaces. Items that do need to be leaned for storage should be secured in some fashion to prevent them from toppling.
POWER SOURCES
The power supply should be adequate for the work to be performed. DO NOT overload circuits and use outlets whenever possible. Minimize the use of extension cords. If the use of an extension cord is unavoidable, select a cord heavy enough for the load. Do not “daisy chain” extension cords together and avoid using damaged or frayed cords. Ensure all cords and tools are properly grounded (as tempting as it might be to remove that pesky third plug, it serves an important purpose!). If extension cords need to be utilized, place them to minimize the potential for tripping.
JACKS
Support raised machines, equipment, or vehicles on sturdy blocks or stands. Never rely solely on a jack.
LIGHTING AND HEATING
Consider using temporary lighting in areas that are lacking to help see clearly. Maintain sufficient ventilation for each task: welding, running engines, chemical usage/storage, and other fume/mist/vapor generating activities. If using temporary means of heating and cooling, follow all manufacturer recommendations. Ensure all safety features are functioning. Use extreme caution when using temporary means of heating when completing tasks that release particulate into the air. Dust and fumes pose a significant flammability hazard. For more information regarding the Montana Ag Safety Program or task-specific safety, visit www. mtagrisafety.com or contact Dana Jansen at danaj@ mtagrisafety.com or (406) 850-9978. ◾
From the Prairie to the Podium Custer Rancher Elected MFBF Vice President
BY REBECCA COLNAR , EDITOR, MFBF SPOKESMAN
He’s called a horny toad whisperer. He’s called a cowboy. Now he’s going to be called “VP” of the Montana Farm Bureau Federation. During the 10th MFBF Annual Convention, voting delegates elected Custer rancher Casey Mott as their vice president when former Vice President Gary Heibertshausen retired from the position he had held for three years.
Mott’s roots run deep in agriculture. He was born and raised on his family’s ranch located in
the heart of a ranching community in northern Utah. A church, a post office and a two-room schoolhouse made up this small community. While in school, he was involved in 4-H and FFA, showing steers at the Box Elder County Fair which was one of the largest county fairs in the region.
In the late 1970s the family moved from Utah to a ranch in northern Stillwater County. Upon graduating from Columbus High School in 1982, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and served as a field artilleryman. After being honorably discharged, he returned to the ranch and started college at Montana State University in Bozeman. However, Mott’s life took a turn when he met his future wife, Rebecca. They were married in 1988 and lived in Virginia where he graduated from college with a bachelor’s degree in U.S History. The couple moved back to Montana in November 1995, with their first stop being the MFBF Annual Convention in Lewistown. While he was working for ranches in southeastern Montana, he joined the Big Horn County Farm Breau.
In 2006, Casey and Rebecca purchased a small place in Custer, Montana which they run as an extension of the larger Mott family ranch which has since moved from Simms to Miles City. They raise replacement heifers and calve the family’s first-calf heifers.
Mott has served as Big Horn County Farm Bureau president and was elected as
A horny toad gets a place of honor on the saddle horn—at least until the photo is taken.
Casey Mott takes a break with Deacon and S haw during a fall gather in 2022.
MFBF District 4 Director in 2020. He decided to run for vice president because he feels, “Montana Farm Bureau is the largest and arguably the best ag organization in our state. Our agriculture is incredible. We are known for our superior cattle, wheat, pulse crops and sugar beets. In addition, we have terrific members growing unique “crops” like bees/honey, melons and organic produce. I want to be a leader in this organization because such hard-working people deserve hard-working leadership.”
The rancher added that the Farm Bureau’s mission of advocating for rural communities resonated with him. “I want to help address the concerns of our membership regarding the vitality of their rural communities. As someone who was raised on a ranch in a small, tightknit community, and who was active in 4-H and FFA, I realize the importance of having a vital “support system” which Farm Bureau and our communities can provide. This is particularly important this day and age of internet and social media where the world is at our fingertips, yet people are more disconnected than ever.”
As vice president, Mott will serve as chair of the MFBF
Political Action Committee, the Budget and Long-Range Planning Committees and the Policy Development Committee. He looks forward to attending the American Farm Bureau Convention in January in San Antonio and sitting in the voting delegate session with MFBF President Cyndi Johnson.
With his election as vice president, Mott also earned a spot on the Mountain West Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company Board of Directors.
But back to the horny toad (aka horned lizard) whisperer. Mott actively posts on Facebook when he literally picks up the small reptiles from the prairie and takes creative photos—which is often. He has been catching and releasing horny toads since his childhood in Utah and while training in the desert in the Marines where he kept a horny toad “pet” in an ammo box.
“When I’m riding my horse checking or gathering cattle, I have plenty of time to look at the ground. I know the terrain where they are most likely to be active,” he explains. “That’s why I love ranching horseback. You see nature at a slower pace.” ◾
Coming Up Fast: The 2025 Montana Legislative Session
January 6, 2025, kicks off another Montana Legislative Session. MFBF Senior Director of Governmental Affairs, Nicole Rolf, will be back for her ninth Session in Helena, putting a voice to MFBF policy. Karli Johnson, MFBF coordinator of state governmental affairs, will be joining Rolf for her first session representing our organization.
At print time, there have already been over 2,100 bill draft requests, so there will be no shortage of legislation for review and position taking. Many of these requests are legislator-initiated ideas, agencyrequested bills, and interim committee bills along with others that have surfaced from working groups and taskforces which convened during the interim. MFBF President, Cyndi Johnson, represented MFBF on the Governor’s Property Tax Task Force and the Department of Revenue’s Land Classification Working Group. Rolf represented irrigated agriculture as a member of the Comprehensive Water Review Working Group. Both groups resulted in bill drafts or concepts and MFBF will take various positions on the bills.
The Property Tax Task Force was charged with providing recommendations to reform the property tax system and reduce the burden of property taxes on homeowners. The bipartisan task force met regularly and provided recommendations to Governor Gianforte in August. Recommendations focused on tax fairness and funding education and local government, the primary recipients of property tax funds.
The Homestead-Comstead proposal came out of the Tax Fairness subcommittee, with the intent of differentiating
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tax rates for primary residences and vacation homes but impacts farmers and ranchers. The proposal creates a lower tax rate for primary residences and long-term rentals while raising the rate on second homes. It creates a twotiered rate for commercial property. A special “ag stead” exemption was added to the concept to address concerns MFBF voiced, regarding employee and family member housing that are often found on farms and ranches.
The Land Classification working group came together to address concerns regarding misclassification of property. One of the hot topics was large tracks of land that have historically been classified as agricultural but were purchased and taken out of production. The working group addressed this with a bill draft titled Revise the Eligibility for Classification as Agricultural Land (PD37). The bill draft requires landowners to prove to the Department of Revenue that the property meets agriculture production gross income requirements set forth in the draft. For crop land, the gross income requirements increase from $1,500 annually, to $4,000 for parcels smaller than 640 acres. On tracks that are one section or greater, the gross income requirement is $6/acre. Grazing land under 640 acres must prove $1,500 annually as valued price per animal unit month (AUM) calculations. Grazing lands over 640 acres will require $1,500 gross annually and $6/acre for any additional acres over 640. The draft also changes the definition of agriculture by providing a long list of what agriculture “is not.” All formerly agriculture-classified lands that no longer meet income requirements, by definition, will be reclassified as “idle land” and taxed at 20 times the agricultural rate.
Other concepts the task force created were the elimination of non-qualified ag land and removing the ag exemption for homesites on large agricultural tracks. Neither of these concepts were advanced by the Revenue Interim Committee, but drafts could be picked up by legislators.
https://mfbf.org/Policy-Advocacy/Voter-Voice
Simultaneously this interim, the Comprehensive Water Review was tasked with addressing several challenging water issues including the future administration and reconciliation of water in Montana after final decree, water storage, and future water development through exempt wells. Six bill drafts came out of the working group. All drafts are available for review on the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s Comprehensive Water Review website but are still subject to change. Some are simple concepts such as dedicating $20 million to increase existing and new water storage
but others are more complicated and contentious. Under current law, the Water Court will dissolve upon completion of final adjudication, which is expected to occur in 2028. Even after adjudication is complete, water right disputes and appropriations will continue, so a path forward must be established for post final decree administration and regulation of water rights. Months of discussion resulted in a bill draft that sets forward a divisional court model, supported by MFBF. It provides for the continuation of the existing water divisions, ensuring local knowledge, and control of water rights. The division judges are required to go to the local jurisdiction of the conflict. These divisional court
Montana Farm Bureau Is Representing You
The Montana Farm Bureau Federation has over a century of experience representing agriculture from the local level to the Capitol in Helena and on the Hill in Washington, DC. Our farmer and rancher members have created a grassroots organization made up of over 20,000 member families from across the state. Our lobbyists focus on legislation that impacts agriculture, our members and the rural communities in which they live. All voting members and Century Club members will receive updates on MFBF legislative efforts throughout the session. The Legislative Highlights newsletter is published five times during the session, the Legislative E-source is distributed weekly, and our governmental relations staff will provide live weekly updates on Facebook. Urge your agricultural friends and neighbors to join MFBF and receive these important communications, and plan to stay involved to hear how Montana Farm Bureau is representing you. Have questions about legislation or the legislative process? Reach out to our Legislative Team!
◾ Nicole Rolf – Senior Director of Governmental Affairs, nicoler@mfbf.org
◾ Karli Johnson – Director of State Governmental Affairs, karlij@mfbf.org
◾ Sage Zook – Policy Development Associate, sagez@mfbf.org
◾ Scott Kulbeck , Executive Vice President, scottk@mfbf.org
Save the Date!
The MFBF Calling on the Capitol is slated for February 10-11, 2025, in Helena. This is an excellent opportunity to see the Montana legislative process at work and meet with legislators and state agency directors. Watch our social media pages for more information or call the MFBF office, 406-587-3153.
judges will be selected from a pool of qualified applicants, appointed by the governor, and confirmed by the senate. Additionally, the draft allows water users to petition for the case to be moved to district court.
Another draft coming out of this process deals with water development through exempt wells. The draft seeks to provide certainty to developers while limiting impacts to existing water right holders. The bill directs DNRC to scientifically identify “red” areas where ground and/or surface water are already adversely impacted, “yellow” areas where impacts are likely, and the rest of the area would be considered “green.” In red areas, no new exempt wells will be allowed, except under special circumstances and grandfathering clauses. Metering will be required for new uses. Yellow areas will be monitored and subject to the same rules as green. In yellow and green areas, the bill creates two “pathways” to use exempt wells. In one pathway, the allowance for exempt well usage remains largely the same: landowners are subject to combined appropriation analysis. The other pathway for parcels being “subdivided” creates an allowance of a half acre-foot of water per acre, up to 1-acre foot of water for up to 24 lots. This allows the status quo pathway up to 10 or 20 acre-feet, but the subdivided land may receive up to 24 acre-feet per year. Note that many of these drafts are still far from their final form and only summarized in this article. MFBF will continue to monitor and advocate on members’ positions. We expect to work on dozens of other bills ranging from livestock predator issues to pesticide regulations. Make sure you share your preferred email address and register for Voter Voice—the MFBF Action Alert software—for weekly updates during the Session. ◾
HELPFUL LINKS
Property Tax Task Force recommendations: https:// budget.mt.gov/About/PropertyTaxTaskForce_ FINALREPORT_OF_THE_GOVERNORS_PROPERTY_ TAX_TASK_FORCE.pdf
Read the full text of PD37 here: https://archive. legmt.gov/content/Committees/Interim/2023-2024/ Revenue/Meetings/August-2024/11.3-ag-PD37.pdf
Comprehensive Water Review Website: https://dnrc.mt.gov/Water-Resources/ Comprehensive-Water-Review/ Voter Voice: https://mfbf.org/Policy-Advocacy/ Voter-Voice
November
18-21, 2024
DoubleTree & Northern Hotels, Billings
The 105th Montana Farm Bureau Annual Convention featured top-notch speakers, educational workshops, excellent networking opportunities and the venerable delegate session. On Monday, ACE class graduates shared their projects for the coming year, implementing what they learned from the class. Tuesday included Vance Crowe of Legacy Interviews, who enlightened the crowd on being an intent listener. Lunch speaker Austin O'Brien, Dakota State University, talked about artificial intelligence in agriculture—what works and what does not. Workshops ran the gamut from Farm Bureau in the courts and busting meat myths to water, business transitions and dealing with dementia.
The Final Four of the exciting Young Farmers and Ranchers Discussion Meet was held late Tuesday afternoon.
More than 131 Farm Bureau delegates filled the Northern ballroom Wednesday to discuss and vote on what would become the MFBF 2025 policy. During lunch renowned scientist Dr. Frank Mithloehner, UC Davis, gave a thoughtful presentation explaining why cattle are not the cause of climate change but can be part of the solution.
The Wednesday evening Celebration Dinner found members enjoying a rollicking good time at The Depot with excellent food, dancing to Tanglewood Unplugged, bidding generously at the YF&R Silent Auction and learning who won the YF&R Discussion Meet—a wonderful wrap-up of an outstanding convention.
Cushman, Deputy General Counsel, AFBF, talks to Aaron Flint, Montana Talks, regarding pending lawsuits.
and interactive presentation on busting meat myths.
Western Ag Network’s Russell Nemetz learns about the ACE program from 2024 graduate Gwynn Simeniuk.
a detailed workshop on water issues surfacing in the 2025 Montana Legislative Session.
Travis
MFBF Taxation Committee Chair Gina Stevens, left, talked taxes and disaster relief fund with Tom Schultz and Colter Brown, Northern Ag Network.
MFBF’s Nicole Rolf and Karli Johnson provided
Sierra Jepsen, Butcher Solutions, had an entertaining
Montana Farm Bureau President Cyndi Johnson and District 2 Director J.M. Peck present the MFBF Distinguished Service Award to Iola Else from Univerisity of Montana-Western (middle).
Salt
was honored with the Leopold Conservation Award.
are (left to
David Bailey—Sand County Foundation, Kendall Morgan –Winnett ACES, Emma and Eric Wickens, and Stacey Barta—Rangeland Resources Program.
8 Director
Director of Montana Agricultural Statistics Service Eric Sommer talks numbers with YF&R member Houston Blevins.
District
Ed Bandel and MFBF President Cyndi Johnson dole out ice cream during the popular Ice Cream Social.
Wickens
Creek Ranch
Pictured
right):
Northwest County’s Susan Lake and Janell Plummer at the Montana Ranch Mama booth.
ACE alumnus Logan Kruse catches up with Lewis & Clark rancher Jim Dusenberry.
Big Horn County President, John Stevens, gets a boot shine from the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch students.
Former MFBF VP Bruce Wright with Chase Hawks Memorial Association Executive Director Teddi Vogel.
Montana Food
Network Board Member
accepts a $9,250 check from
Farm Bureau Young Farmers
Committee Chair. The donation came from money raised during YF&R’s Hoofin’ it for Hunger
Enjoying the Depot festivities are District 2 Director J.M. Peck, Chouteau County President Jess Bandel and Mountain West Farm Bureau Insurance’s Jeff Suloff.
The celebration at the Depot on Montana Avenue in Billings wrapped up a fantastic convention with great food and camaraderie.
The dance floor stayed busy as Tanglewood Unplugged entertained the crowd.
Bank
Jessy Proctor
Nick Courville, Montana
& Ranchers
Race in Dillon.
Summit Browning, S Bar B Coffee, with Lewis & Clark County’ s Mark Diehl.
Newly elected District 4 Director Jese Stetson bids on silent auction items. The silent auction raised $5,450 for the YF&R.
President Cyndi Johnson with Senator-Elect Tim Sheehy. Sheehy gave remarks at the kick-off of the
Dr. Frank Mitloehner, UC Davis, provided insightful climate change research to show that cattle are the solution, not the problem.
District 7 Director Wayne Stahl visits DNRC’s Chris Stump.
Northern Ag Network’s Colter Brown with Cascade County Farm Bureau President Merrill McKamey.
MFBF
convention.
District 1 Director Beth Blevins chats with AFBF’s Austin Large. Large’s workshop covered Farm Bureau recruitment strategies.
MFBF Executive VP Scott Kulbeck with MT Director of the Department of Revenue Brendan Beatty.
Cady Brown, UM Western, took first place in the Collegiate Farm Bureau Discussion Meet.
Montana Farm Bureau Delegates Elect Officers
The Montana Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) voting delegates elected officers and directors during its 105th Annual Convention in Billings.
Cyndi Johnson, a small grains farmer from Conrad, was reelected as president.
Casey Mott, a cattle rancher from Custer, takes over as vice president, succeeding Gary Heibertshausen who retired.
Jese Stetson, a cattle rancher from Fromberg, replaces Mott as District 4 Director. Re-elected to the board were District 2 Director J.M. Peck (cattle rancher, Melrose), District 6 Director Don Steinbeisser, Jr. (diversified farmer, Sidney), District 8 Director Ed Bandel (wheat farmer, Floweree), and District 10 Director Jim Willis (cattle producer, Wilsall).
Nick Courville, a Charlo rancher, remains the Young Farmer & Rancher Chair. Carla Lawrence from Boyd continues her role as Women's Leadership Committee Chair.
Following are the elected district chairs for the Women’s Leadership Committee and the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee:
DISTRICT WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE:
District 1: Beth Blevins - Ronan
Myla Yahraus - Stevensville
District 3: Mary Hill - Raynesford
Leslie Cavill - Ryegate
District 5: Dawn Aye - Broadus
Cathy McDowell - Powderville
District 7: Joy DePuydt - Saco
Gwynn Simeniuk - Glasgow
District 9: Kayla Christians – Helena
Pam Converse - Conrad
DISTRICT YOUNG FARMERS & RANCHERS COMMITTEE:
District 1: Houston Blevins - St. Ignatius
Buddy Cheff – Ronan
District 3: Vic Lewis – Ryegate
Bronya Willmore – Roy
District 5: Lea Aye – Broadus
Fiona Mott – Miles City
District 7: McCall Lammerding – Saco
John Walker - Nashua
District 9: Katharine Taylor – Jefferson City
Klayton Lohr – Shelby
The 131 voting delegates set MFBF policy for 2025.
Park County Farm Bureau members Nick Jerke, Leif Arthun, Lily Anderson, and Tyler Sarrazin get ready to vote.
The YF&R Committee had a productive meeting as they planned their YF&R Leadership Conference and other activities for 2025.
STEWARD LEVEL AgWest
MFBF Foundation
Polaris of MT
Montana Ag Safety Program
Montana DNRC Rangelands Resource Program
Mountain West Farm Bureau Insurance
Northwest Counties Farm Bureau
Yellowstone County Farm Bureau
CKP Insurance
Pinion
LEADER LEVEL
Visit Billings
Yellowstone Valley Electric Co-op
Producer Partnership
Bayer
BNSF Railway
Mountain View Co-op
Bank of the Rockies
Yellowstone Boys & Girls Foundation
Cascade County Farm Bureau
Dakota Access
Montana Dept of Agriculture
Montana Livestock Ag Credit
Northern Ag Network
Northwestern Energy
TC Energy
The Final Four Discussion Meet—Nick Courville, John Walker, Tienna Canen, and Jeremiah Peterson— addressed the concerns about keeping young people involved in agriculture and Farm Bureau.
Torgerson's LLC
Beyond the Weather
Stockman Bank
Montana Renewables, LLC
CONTRIBUTOR LEVEL
Landtrust
Western Ag Network
TRADE SHOW ONLY
Beltone Hearing Care Center
C&B Operations
Chase Hawks Memorial Association
CHS Nutrition
DNRC Water Resources Division
Grainger
Montana Ranch Mama
Montana Beef Council
Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks
Montana Health Professionals
On Site Energy Inc
S Bar B Coffee
US Health Advisors
USDA Farm Service Agency
USDA-NASS
W Bar 7 Boutique
NRCS
Montana Farm Bureau Announces 2025 ACE Leadership Class
The Montana Farm Bureau Federation announces their ACE (Advocate. Communicate. Educate)
Leadership Program class for 2025. This is the ACE Leadership Program’s eighth year of empowering Farm Bureau members to become confident and effective leaders in their local communities, for Montana agriculture and for their county Farm Bureaus. The program provides its participants with skills to communicate industry issues and represent Farm Bureau interests at the local, state and national level. ACE successfully does this by focusing on leadership development, engaging local communities and issues advocacy.
The year-long program will kick off in January in Bozeman followed by five more seminars across Montana. During these trainings, ACE participants will hear from agriculture advocates, media professionals, communications specialists and policymakers. In
2024 ACE Program Graduates Recognized at Farm Bureau Convention
The Montana Farm Bureau Federation celebrated the Class of 2024 graduates of their ACE (Advocate. Communicate. Educate)
Leadership Program during a luncheon at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Billings. This was the ACE Leadership Program’s seventh year of empowering Farm Bureau members to become confident and effective leaders in their local communities, for Montana agriculture and for their county Farm Bureaus. Each class member gave a presentation regarding how they plan to use their ACE training in the coming year to better their communities and their county Farm Bureaus.
between seminars, they’ll also participate in virtual one-on-one coaching with an expert in leadership and personal development.
To learn more about the ACE Program, visit: https:// mfbf.org/Programs/ACE-Program
THE 2025 ACE CLASS:
◾ Kayla Christians, Helena
◾ Lauren Kett, Livingston
◾ Riley Larson, Lewistown
◾ Kasydi Lucas, Helena
◾ Amanda Martin, Ulm
◾ Makae Reed, Twin Bridges
◾ Andy Schwab, Billings
◾ Mackenzie Serrano, Dillon
◾ Cody Shick, Choteau
◾ Kim Woodring, Cut Bank
Front Row, left to right: Gwynn Simeniuk, Trina Jo Bradley, Meghan Lehman, Jeremiah Peterson. Back: Logan Kruse, Gary Heibertshausen, Nick Jerke, Budd Cheff, Tyson Young, Todd Lackman.
Montana Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee Update: Looking Ahead to 2025
BY CARLA LAWRENCE, MFBF WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR
As 2024 draws to a close and another Montana Farm Bureau (MFB) Annual Convention wraps up, I'm excited to share some news from the Women's Leadership Committee (WLC). During the delegate session, I was honored to be re-elected WLC chair for my final year of a six-year term in 2025. Additionally, representatives from odd-numbered districts (1-9) were elected or re-elected to serve on the WLC next year. You can find a full list of WLC members by district below:
DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES (2025):
◾ District 1: Beth Blevins & Myla Yahraus
◾ District 2: Rhonda Boyd & Becky Stuart
◾ District 3: Mary Hill & Leslie Cavill
◾ District 4: Kathy Teter & Gretchen Schubert (New)
◾ District 5: Cathy McDowell & Dawn Aye (New)
◾ District 6: Paula Steinbeisser & Lily Jensen
◾ District 7: Joy DePuydt & Gwynn Simeniuk (New)
◾ District 8: Marjorie Pribyl & Lorie Miner
◾ District 9: Pam Converse & Kayla Christians (New)
◾ District 10: Heidi Brewer & Carole Plymale
The New Year brings exciting opportunities for the WLC! First up is the American Farm Bureau (AFB) Annual Convention in San Antonio, Texas from January 24-28, 2025. WLC programming includes networking events, a Women in Ag Meet and Greet, the AFB Women's Annual Meeting, the inclusion of MFB-WLC voting and alternate delegates at the AFBF Delegate Session, and a training session for State WLC Chairs and Vice-Chairs. Don't miss the Sunrise Service, inspiring speakers on the Cultivation Stage, and the vast trade show! Ticketed events include the AFB Foundation Breakfast and Leadership Luncheon.
Mark your calendars! The AFB FUSION Conference will be held in Denver, Colorado from March 7-10, 2025. This event welcomes members of the Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R), WLC, and Promotion & Education Committee (P&E). American Farm Bureau President
Zippy Duvall will deliver the closing keynote address. National Ag Day falls on March 18 during National Ag Week, March 17-23, 2025). The AFB-WLC Spring Boot Camp follows in Washington D.C., April 21-24, 2025. (Applications opened December 16, 2024.)
February 10-12, 2025, WLC District representatives will gather for a training session before participating in "Calling on the Capitol" in Helena. Registration details for Calling on the Capitol, open to all Farm Bureau members, will become available. Watch our social media pages, mfbf.org or call the state office at 406-587-3153.
The MFB-WLC remains dedicated to supporting the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Billings and Missoula. We'll also continue our local involvement in the Ag in Color Drawing Contest, promoting ag accurate books and classroom reading initiatives, and advocating for agriculture on the county, state, and national levels.
Wishing the entire Montana Farm Bureau family a happy and productive New Year! I look forward to connecting with you down the trail.
For more information about the WLC, please contact Carla Lawrence at carla.at.the.ranch@gmail.com ◾
The Women’s Leadership Committee met to discuss upcoming activities during the MFBF Annual Convention in Billings.
Montana YF&R Committee Gears Up for 2025 with Exciting Events and Increased Communication
BY NICK COURVILLE, YF&R COMMITTEE CHAIR
The YF&R Committee meeting at the Montana Farm Bureau Convention in Billings was buzzing with energy as we planned for a successful 2025. The key focus was participation and engagement in our events.
REVAMPING THE YOUTH SPEECH CONTEST AND BRIDGING THE GAP
Two exciting subcommittees were formed. One will examine the MFBF-sponsored Youth Speech Contest at the FFA State Convention. Their goal? To find more effective ways to introduce younger audiences to the Discussion Meet, preparing them for future YF&R participation.
The other committee tackled member retention. Inspired by Jeremiah Peterson's ACE project. They will aim to build a strong bridge between Collegiate Farm Bureau members and YF&R members. This will ensure a smooth transition for young farmers and ranchers when they graduate from Collegiate Young Farmers & Ranchers to join as voting or associate MFBF Members. Jeremiah's insightful one-page report provides valuable ideas that our social media guru, Haley Droogsma, can implement to bridge the gap.
YF&R LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: DON'T MISS OUT!
Mark your calendars! The YF&R Leadership Conference is happening January 17-19, 2025, at the Holiday Inn in Missoula. With workshops, tours, and engaging speakers, there's something for everyone, whether you're a young farmer, rancher or simply passionate about agriculture.
We have had incredibly supportive sponsors, but
additional sponsors are always welcome. To help create a truly memorable conference, reach out to Rikki Swant (rikkis@mfbf.org) or me (doublecrosslivestock@ gmail.com) with potential sponsors.
ENHANCED COMMUNICATION: FACEBOOK GROUP AND BEYOND
Our social media guru, Haley, has been diligently promoting the conference on Facebook and Instagram. Speaking of Facebook, we're launching a new group specifically for YF&R-aged members (18-35) – even those like Buddy Cheff who discovered the joy of Farm Bureau later in life! This group will offer a platform to share information beyond committee emails, reaching a wider audience. We're excited about the potential for improved communication and member interaction.
A SUCCESSFUL 2024 DISCUSSION MEET AND LOOKING AHEAD
The 2024 YF&R Discussion Meet at the MFBF Convention was a success, with topics like land access and YF&R engagement generating a wealth of valuable ideas. These insights will be implemented to strengthen our organization.
On a personal note, after four years of competing, I'm thrilled to have brought home the Polaris Ranger – a fantastic incentive that has significantly boosted participation in the Discussion Meet. This is the tenth year of Polaris's incredible sponsorship, and we are immensely grateful for their continued support. Remember this generosity the next time you're looking for a UTV or ATV.
As the winner, I also receive a trip to the American
Discussion Meet Winner Nick Courville puts his Polaris Ranger to work on his ranch in Charlo.
Farm Bureau Convention in San Antonio, Texas, where I'll be representing Montana and have the opportunity to win a Ford truck. I'm excited to compete in the national Discussion Meet and look forward to connecting with fellow young farmers and ranchers at upcoming events, including the YF&R Leadership Conference in Missoula and the FUSION Conference in Denver (March 7-10). Don't forget, the MFB Foundation offers scholarships for FUSION – apply today at https://form.jotform. com/242846876825170!
By combining exciting events with improved communication strategies, the YF&R Committee is poised for a fantastic year in 2025. We look forward to seeing you at our events. ◾
Level Up Your Farming Future: MFBF Young Farmer & Rancher Conference
Ready to take your skills to the next level? Join us for the MFBF Young Farmer and Rancher Leadership Conference, happening January 17-19, 2025, at the Holiday Inn in Missoula, MT.
This incredible conference offers a chance to sharpen your leadership skills and become a stronger advocate for agriculture, learn about the latest advancements in animal care, crop science, and more, network with fellow young farmers and ranchers, build lasting professional connections, and meet industry experts to gain valuable insights from their experience.
Here's a taste of what awaits you:
◾ Friday evening: K ick things off with a fun social gathering featuring food, games, and a chance to mingle with peers.
◾ Saturday:
◾ Morning: Gain knowledge from speakers on farm marketing, EPDs (Expected Progeny Differences), forestry management and more.
◾ Lunch: Hear from estate planning guru Ron Hanson on "Empowering Young Farmers/Ranchers to Achieve Transition Planning Success."
◾ Afternoon: Choose your adventure with farm tours at Turner Farms & Oxbow Cattle Company or Lifeline Dairy and Buck & Dave's Eggs.
◾ Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner followed by a night of lively entertainment with dueling pianos!
◾ Sunday: Wrap up the conference with breakfast and a thought-provoking presentation by Barney Sheridan on "A Look from the Other Side." Ready to register? Head over to mfbf.org for details and sign up. You can also find more information on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Don't miss out on early bird pricing! Collegiate Registration (on or before Jan. 5th): $50; Young Farmer & Rancher Registration (on or before Jan. 5th): $75; All Registration (after Jan. 5th): $100.
Book your stay! Call the Holiday Inn Missoula at (406) 721-8550 and mention the "MF2" room block for a special conference rate of $130+tax (by January 3, 2025).
This is your chance to grow as a leader and shape the future of agriculture. Do not miss out!
mfbf.org
County News
Gallatin County hosted a Meet and Greet with the Association of Gallatin Agricultural Irrigators December 11 at the Manhattan Stockman Bank. The event brought together AGAI members and current Gallatin County legislators to help the elected officials understand agricultural issues.
Yellowstone County members Rhonda Koivu, Kathy Teter, President Jodie Drange and Teddi Vogel decorate their windmill “tree” at the Huntley Project Museum.
Cascade County held their Christmas Party December 19 at the home of Alena and Todd Standley.
Fergus County hosted a Christmas Party December 23 at the Farm Bureau office in Lewistown complete with holiday treats and festive cheer.
Northwest Counties held their annual Christmas Party December 21 at the home of District 1 Director Beth Blevins.
Left: Bernard and Gene Evans. Right: Lowell and Lynn Stevenson.
Dawson/Wibaux County held a Christmas Party December 8 at the Glendive Public Library.
Richland County held a fun Christmas Party December 10 at ABC Lanes in Sidney.
HOLIDAY CHEER
IN THE NEWS
Northwest County Farm Bureau and 2024
ACE graduate Buddy Cheff, along with YF&R Chair Nick Courville, shared their thoughts on the “Yellowstone Effect” in an article published by Lee Newspapers, which included the Billings Gazette and Bozeman Chronicle. In the piece, the two young ranchers talked about the reality of ranching and how the popular television series “Yellowstone” has affected ranching in northwestern Montana.
Yellowstone County Farm Bureau and 2023
ACE graduate Greg Gabel interviewed with a KTVQ Billings reporter on how “climate change” is affecting his farming strategies.
NOTE! PAY 2025 DUES
This is the last Montana Farm Bureau Spokesman you will receive if your 2025 dues are not paid. Don’t know for sure? Call 406-587-3153 or log in to your MFBF account at https:// mfbf.org/user/login to check your membership status. If you haven’t previously logged into your account, click on the upper right “Login” button and follow instructions. From there you can easily renew your dues if not current.
Register Today for the 2025 AFBF FUSION Conference
Registration is open for the 2025 AFBF FUSION Conference, taking place March 7-10 in Denver.
More than 1,100 members and state staff from across the country are expected to attend. Volunteer leaders from the three Farm Bureau program areas— Promotion & Education, Women’s Leadership and Young Farmers & Ranchers—will gather to learn, share and grow together to build a stronger Farm Bureau. There will be great speakers, breakout sessions and evening events that offer opportunities to grow, exchange ideas, sharpen leadership skills and network with members
Women’s Leadership Committee
from across the country. You’ll leave the conference inspired with new ideas and new energy for your farm and Farm Bureau.
For registration information and hotels, contact Alena Standley, alenas@mfbf.org or Sue Ann Streufert, sueanns@mfbf.org or call the MFBF office, 406-587-3153.
Fire in the Hole: A Forester’s Look at the World of Wildland Firefighting
By Mark Lewing
REVIEW BY REBECCA COLNAR , SPOKESMAN EDITOR
Ireceived this book review from its author, Mark Lewing, the same time as the terrible Remington Fire and other wildfires were scorching southeastern Montana and northern Wyoming. A glance at Watch Duty showed fires spread across the state of Montana and the West.
Lewing, a Ravalli County Farm Bureau member, has been a firefighter for more than 60 years, beginning his career earning a degree in Timber Management at the University of Montana and working during the summer with the U.S. Forest Service. After four years in the U.S. Air Force, he spent the next 31 years, as the Hamilton Unit Manager, for the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.
In this book, which reads like an autobiography, Lewing offers a captivating and insightful glimpse into the world of wildland firefighting. Drawing upon his extensive career as a professional forester, he offers a unique perspective, blending personal anecdotes with expert knowledge.
Lewing recounts his own experiences, from early days
battling blazes on the ground to assuming higher-level supervisory roles. He doesn't shy away from sharing the challenges and frustrations encountered.
Beyond personal accounts, "Fire in the Hole" delves into the complexities of wildland fire management. He gives details on the Firestorm of 2000 which burned 350,000 acres in the Bitterroot Mountains, explaining his frustration and firefighting challenges with the ferocity of that fire.
He expands upon his own experiences by adding the voice of a casual acquaintance and now a good friend, David A. Shouldice, whom he met while fighting the Skalkaho Complex Fire during the fires of 2000.
He discusses the importance of prescribed burns, fuel reduction strategies, and the crucial role of interagency cooperation in mitigating the risks associated with wildfires, even when that cooperation can be challenging.
In the epilogue, Lewing provides his personal observations and thoughts of how the world of firefighting has changed and how it could be improved. ◾
The MFBF Foundation Disaster Relief Fund is available for donations to help those who experienced losses during the fires of 2024 and other natural disasters. Visit mfbf.org/ foundation/Donate-Today
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