Dr Frankie Crutcher | Sidney | frankie crutcher@montana edu
Dr Audrey Kalil | Willison | Akilil@horizonresources coop
Staff
Executive Director
Shannon Berndt | Bismarck | berndt@nothernpulse.com
Montana Field Rep
Tom Allen | Great Falls | tallen@northernpulse com
Office Assistant
Sarah Massey | Bismarck | sarahm@nothernpulse com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2025 NPGA Convention
The 2025 NPGA Convention once again found its home at the Sleep Inn & Suites in Minot, ND, marking our third consecutive year! With unseasonably perfect weather on January 28th, attendees arrived in full force, leading to a packed house with over 120 pulse industry leaders, producers, researchers, and stakeholders joining us throughout the day.
The energy in the room was undeniable as we kicked off with a compelling keynote from This Week in AgriBusiness host Mike Pearson His passionate and well-researched presentation provided valuable insights into global agriculture trends, economic outlooks, and what they mean for pulse growers moving forward.
The conversation didn’t stop there NPGA researchers took the stage to share exciting updates on previously awarded grants, shedding light on new opportunities, innovations, and what pulse producers can anticipate in the coming years.
Beyond the presentations, the convention floor buzzed with lively discussions, networking, and collaboration, reinforcing just how dedicated and forward-thinking the pulse industry is. This year’s invigorating turnout has sparked a renewed focus for NPGA on growth, innovation, and continued improvements as we set our sights on 2026
THE STRATEGIC PLAN
The Northern Pulse Growers Association is proud to announce Sarah Bohnenkamp as our new Strategic Planner With a strong track record of leadership, business strategy, and industry coaching, Bohnenkamp will play a pivotal role in helping NPGA sharpen its vision and map out a clear, actionable path forward.
Bohnenkamp brings a wealth of experience in leadership development, branding, and strategic growth, having worked extensively with agricultural organizations and business leaders to refine their messaging and maximize impact. As a seasoned coach and consultant, she has helped countless teams streamline operations and build sustainable, resultsdriven strategies
Sarah Bohnenkamp
Hilton Garden Inn
Great Falls, Montana
The Northern Pulse Growers Association and Pacific Northwest Canola Association are teaming up this December to host a Pulse Crop & Canola Workshop focused on agronomy, production updates, and grower-driven discussion.
Dr. Audrey Kalil, Mr. Aaron Smith and Lauren Parez after a visit with an assistant to Andy Harris of Maryland.
WASHINGTON D.C PulsePolicyPush
From February 3rd to 7th, NPGA board and staff members traveled to Washington, D.C., alongside the USA Pulses team on a mission to educate government officials about pulse crops and their benefits to farmers, consumers, the economy, and food security. Over the course of four days, USA Pulses coordinated approximately 130 meetings, with teams of four pulse industry representatives advocating for key issues. One particularly pressing topic was the role of pulses in international food aid. Currently, about 15% of our producers’ exports go to USAID programs—yet during our visit, we learned that USAID had been paused by the current administration. While this created an atmosphere of uncertainty, it also presented a critical opportunity to inform members of Congress and their staff about the importance of pulses in food security and global nutrition.
Among the key topics discussed were efforts to incorporate pulses into school lunch programs, ensuring that lentils and chickpeas become familiar staples from an early age
Additionally, we addressed the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which are updated every five years. The continued support for increasing pulse consumption from 1.5 to 2.5 cups per week remains a strong point of advocacy. Trade and tariffs were also a major focus, as these policies directly impact our producers. It’s vital for government officials to recognize that farming is the backbone of America and that supporting farmers ultimately means supporting the country as a whole.
The Northern Pulse Growers Association associate board director, Audrey Kalil, and Executive Director, Shannon Bernt, plan to continue to advocate for Pulse Crops in Washington, DC in 2026 alongside USA Pulses.
The Capitol Building- Washington D.C
Root Rot
Field Day
On July 14, growers and ag professionals gathered in Mako , North Dakota, for a Root Rot Field Day led by Dr. Michael Wunsch, plant pathologist with the NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center The event featured in-field demonstrations highlighting the impact of root rot in pulse crops, with Dr Wunsch sharing the latest research on disease management, varietal resistance, and fungicide performance.
Participants had the chance to observe symptoms of root rot firsthand in side-by-side crop trials and learn how environmental conditions influence disease development. Dr. Wunsch provided practical recommendations for integrated management strategies, helping growers better understand how to make proactive, cost-effective decisions for future growing seasons
In addition to the educational value, the event offered attendees an opportunity to connect with fellow producers, discuss shared challenges, and hear how others are approaching disease control in their own fields. The field day reinforced the value of boots-on-the-ground learning, with real-world insight that complements research findings
USA PULSES
(And Washington State University)
Expanding on the Washington State University Tour
In May, staff from the Northern Pulse Grower’s Association and Clearwater Communications participated in a series of collaborative meetings with USA Pulses and researchers at Washington State University The visit provided valuable insights into ongoing national efforts supporting pulse crop promotion, research and grower advocacy
The Role of Extrusion in Pulse Crop Innovation
Extrusion is a high-heat, high-pressure processing technique that reshapes raw ingredients—such as peas, lentils, or chickpeas—into a wide variety of functional food products. Commonly seen in puffed snacks, pasta, breakfast cereals, and plant-based meat alternatives, extrusion allows pulse ingredients to take on new textures and forms while retaining their nutritional value.
Why It Matters for Pulse Growers
Pulse crops are naturally rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Through extrusion, these attributes are preserved and packaged into convenient, shelf-stable formats that resonate with modern consumer preferences for healthy, high-protein foods. As a result, extrusion not only adds value to the raw commodity but also significantly expands its market potential.
This process is particularly important as global food companies seek sustainable protein sources to meet growing demand. Extrusion technology enables pulses to compete head-to-head with soy and wheat in the value-added food space—bringing more visibility, diversified uses, and stronger market demand back to the farm gate. For growers, this translates into:
Increased utilization of pulse crops in consumer goods
Opportunities for higher premiums on value added products.
Enhanced industry recognition for sustainability and nutrition
As more research investment flows into pulse-based extrusion, the pathway from field to fork becomes more direct, dynamic, and rewarding. Examples: PeaTos Puffs & Rings, Hippeas Puffs & Pops
We asked a grower, McKade Mahlen about how his 2025 Pulse season was shaking out, and here is what he had to say.
How would you describe the 2025 growing season in one sentence?
Plenty of early optimism with the plentiful rains and cool weather, but as we came into July the tap has shut off and the heat came rolling in... now what the peas and lentils become is anyone's guess but it wont be the bumper crop we were hoping for in North Eastern Montana.
What challenges had the biggest impact on your pulse crops this year?
- We had to switch from peat inoculant to liquid inoculant to finish off the second half of our pulses during seeding due to the high humidity in early May The high humidity combined with the peat inoculant caused bridging issues in our air cart, and thus made one of our fields seed like a checker board. Other than that weed control and disease pressure has been below the usual action threshold for the majority of the farm.
Did you try anything new in your production practices this season?
- We switched to a double disk drill this year,and was happy with the stand that emerged. We previously used a stealth tip hoe drill, and with the persistent drought that we have been in we wanted to mitigate the disturbance of our topsoil as much as possible.
How did weather patterns affect your pulse crop yield or quality?
- April through May we were cool and wet (perfect growing conditions for our pulses), but June through July we have switched to a hot and dry weather pattern and that is taking its tole on the pulses seeded into lighter soils.
What’s one takeaway or lesson from the 2025 season you’ll carry into next year?
- Seeding through high humidity - don't use peat or granular inoculant, empty your drill tanks at the end of the day, and clean your meters... this will reduce your chances for bridging in your seed tanks. The high humidity thing is not an issue we are very accustom to, going forward we are looking to add a oil cooler to our air cart fan intake to assist in mitigating this issue going forward.
FROM THE DIRECTOR
Shannon Berndt, Executive Director
In this issue, I wanted to take a moment to honor someone who shaped my life in countless ways—my grandmother. Her recent passing at nearly 101 years old has had me reflecting on the lessons she left behind. She was a true force of wisdom, humor, and resilience, life she led was full of moments worth sharing. Below are a few of the things she taught me— lessons I’ll carry with me.
I think of all the things that she's witnessed in her life. Growing up on a farm with no running water or electricity, the Great Depression, a young wife to a WWII serviceman stationed in Germany and raising three rowdy boys on a farm in Emmons County North Dakota. She was a keeper of treasures and proudly passed along items such as journals when her grandfather was a legislator for the Dakota Territories and documents of my grandfather’s family arriving in the US from Norway. She relayed funny stories, one of which includes a hundred plus year-old wedding cake. Each year the wedding cake received a light frosting so that it would retain its color.
During the Depression, sugar was scarce and would be wasteful used for such a task. Instead, shoe polish and paint were used to keep the frosting in place for the years that followed. One hundred years later and weighing in at nearly 30 pounds, the frosting is still intact, although no one is really sure what remains of the cake underneath! While these are all great memories that my family is so happy to have, what I most appreciate are the things she left of priceless value. She left her wisdom, her tenacity and her ability to smile through the toughest of challenges. In her memory, I want to share some of her wisdom I will carry with me
1.) Write the note
of topics for your feature articles
My grandma always valued handwritten notes. She’d keep cards and letters for years, and sharing those little handwritten gems brought her so much joy. When I get a typed letter with a handwritten note in the corner, it truly makes my day. Knowing someone took the time to connect in such a fast-paced world reminds me of the importance of intention and connection. In today’s world of quick emails and texts, hand write the note.
This can range from interviews, product reviews, human interest pieces, and even lists Think about what your audience would be interested in and get writing! Again, choose engaging photos and graphics to accompany your words, as these also help catch your audience's eye
2) Still Waters Run Deep
Sometimes, people who seem calm outside hide incredible depth. Just like the smooth surface of a deep stream, a quiet exterior can conceal a rich, complex individual. In such a noisy and chaotic world, there’s value in choosing not to add to the chaos. We don't need to engage in every disagreement or feel the need to prove ourselves at every turn. Sometimes, it’s better to conserve our energy for what really matters.
3) Don’t Get Too Big for Your Britches
Grandma’s reminder to stay humble — don’t get so confident that you become arrogant or ungrateful. It’s important to remember where you started and to appreciate those who’ve helped you along the way. Lending a hand when you can be part of staying grounded. After all, we all came into the world the same way and we will all leave it the same way.
After writing all your articles and adding them to your layout, list down all the titles to set up your table of contents. You can add a brief description for each article or keep it simple and paste the feature titles on the page Don't forget your page numbers too!
4) Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen
When too many people try to control or influence something, the result often suffers. While teamwork is great, many hands don’t always make light work — especially if there’s no clear goal. Without shared purpose or direction, it quickly turns into chaos. Good communication and transparency are essential to keep everyone’s efforts aligned. This applies when making gravy for the Lutheran Church social.
5) It’ll All Come Out in the Wash
Just like stains fade with a good wash, the truth tends to come out over time. Problems get sorted, fact replaces opinion and a clearer picture emerges. In the end, patience and honesty help everything settle into place. What a great reminder that challenges will come and go but we will return to the calm once again.
Autobiography with Todd Klassy
The NPGA has commissioned photographer Todd Klassy to capture images showcasing our growers, pulse crops, and the unique stories of our producers throughout North Dakota and Montana.
I am a Montana-based agriculture photographer and digital marketing professional who specializes in farm & ranch photography. My photos have been published by Popular Photography, National Geographic, Newsweek, People, Sports Illustrated, and other newspapers, magazines, websites, and books Now working with a team of associates who help me photograph Montana and North Dakota agriculture, I am drawn to the striking views of rural life and agriculture across the northern plains
I began photographing the pulse industry out of a deep respect for the farmers who grow peas, lentils, and chickpeas crops that are transforming both the land and the rural Montana economy. Drawn to wide open farm fields, the texture of soil, and the resilience of rural communities, I enjoy looking for uncommon subjects to photograph and oftenoverlooked stories. Hopefully my photography and writings have helped elevate the visibility of pulse crops and the vital role they play in sustainable farming and global food systems
My favorite pulse photos are among the first ones I ever made. They were taken on a farm near Dutton, Montana during harvest This was moment that started my journey into photographing pulse crops and I have never looked back once.
Pulse Potential Webinar
The Northern Pulse Growers Association and Northern Crops Institude have collaborated to bring you the Pulse Potential Webinars! This webinar series focuses on providing education on pulse production and its uses to increase demand and farmer’s desire to grow pulses Topics throughout the series include uses and benefits of pulses, trends & innovations, market drivers, and the path from producer to the processor. A new speaker will be featured each month.
Scan Here for upcoming webinars!
Spokane, WA
GLOBAL PULSE SUMMIT
NPGA Board Member and Treasurer, Blake Rassmussen, addresses attendees during the grower panel
This year’s United States Pea and Lentil Trade Association Annual Meeting took place July 7–10 in Spokane, WA, and it was well worth the trip. Growers, processors, researchers, and industry professionals from around the world came together to talk shop, share updates, and connect in the kind of face-to-face conversations that simply can’t be replicated over email or Zoom. The agenda was full—featuring insightful panels, breakout sessions tailored to specific crop sectors, and a bustling trade show floor—but just as valuable were the hallway conversations, shared meals, and unplanned moments where ideas were exchanged and new connections made. For those who spend most of their time in the field or at the plant, it was a refreshing and productive few days surrounded by people who genuinely understand the pulse industry.
Pulses Summit
NPGA on the Ground
NPGA was proud to be part of the action. Board member Blake Rasmussen took the stage during the Grower Panel on July 8, offering a valuable perspective from our region and representing pulse producers in a big way. His insight into lentil and pea production was a great addition to the conversation. Tom Allen, NPGA also helped hold down the fort in the trade show area. NPGA was proud to be a sponsor connecting directly with attendees
Worth the Miles
Beyond the sessions and industry updates, one of the real highlights was just getting to spend time with likeminded people Whether it was catching up over coffee between breakouts or taking in the scenery during the riverboat cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene, the opportunity to build community and recharge among peers was just as valuable as any keynote. Events like this are a good reminder that this industry is built on more than just acres and contracts it’s built on relationships
STAY IN THE LOOP WITH NPGA’S TEXT CONNECT
Stay Ahead with NPGA’s Text Connect: Your Essential Info Hub
Hey growers and agriculture enthusiasts! We know how crucial it is for you to stay informed about the latest happenings in the agriculture world.That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce NPGA’s new Text Connect service –your direct line to must-have updates and alerts.
Imagine getting vital information like USDA sign-up deadlines, crop insurance details, and industry alerts straight to your mobile device With Text Connect, you’ll never miss a beat. Gone are the days of sifting through countless emails or relying on snail mail. Our quick and easy text updates mean you’ll always be in the know, right when you need it.
Why should you subscribe? Simple Broadcasting important deadlines and updates via text ensures you’re always prepared and ahead of the game.Whether it's a deadline reminder for USDA programs or crucial changes in crop insurance, we’ve got you covered.
How to get started? Easy as pie! Just sign up for Text Connect, and you’re all set to receive fast, reliable info tailored specifically to your needs.
Join our free text alert system by scanning the QR Code below Didn’t recieve a message?
Join Now!
Thank you for joining NPGA Text Alerts! We’re here to communicate with you more frequently and easily!
Stay informed, stay connected, and most importantly, stay ahead with NPGA’s Text Connect. Sign up today and experience hasslefree updates like never before. Because when it comes to your livelihood, every piece of information counts
Remember, a quick text can make all the difference. Let’s make farming smarter together!
NPGA
How the NPGA is Working for the Producer
You might have heard the NPGA's slogan, "Working for the Producer," but what does it really mean? In simple terms, it's about making sure that the dollars producers contribute to the NPGA are used in ways that directly benefit them. Think of it like a community fund focused on everything from education and outreach to market promotion and research. It's all about improving producers' profitability and success. Decisions being directed by farmers for farmers!
Research and Development: The Backbone of Success
Let's dive into what makes producers successful. Whether it’s a better yield or a resilient crop, research plays a crucial role. The NPGA invests significantly in research projects to tackle those pesky production challenges like disease, weeds, and insects. Plus, we’re blending agronomic research with breeding and genetics to create crop varieties that serve what both farmers and consumers need. This means healthier soils and more sustainable farming practices.
A Collaborative Effort
The NPGA doesn’t work in isolation. We have great partnerships with stakeholders, universities and organizations. The focus is on crafting high-quality, products that can compete in global markets. For example, with funds from the ND Dry Pea & Lentil Council, the NPGA is pumping over $300,000 each year into vital regional research projects that specifically address the needs of producers in North Dakota and Montana.
Cross-Border Cooperation
The NPGA's research projects often span across state borders, benefiting producers across the Northern Tier. Since its inception, the NPGA has made some pioneering strides, like establishing the nation's first pulse quality lab at North Dakota State University, a pulse breeding program, pathology program and pulse specific work at Northern Crops Institute. Most recently, through funds contributed by the ND Dry Pea & Lentil Council, the NPGA was able to invest in the Peltier Complex in Fargo. This investment supported a protein lab which will benefit the success of the entire pulse industry for years to come.
Annual Highlights and Future Plans
Each year, the NPGA and USA Pulses organize an annual research review. This is the event where all submitted research proposals are thoroughly reviewed by committee members from across the U.S. Proposals are submitted directly to the NPGA or USA Pulses for consideration. NPGA grants are awarded based on priority and available funding and determined by its own research committee. Interested in hearing the most recent projects funded? Be sure to attend the annual poster session held at the NPGA Convention. In addition, highlights of these projects are widely distributed in publications, newsletter, and on social media. A full list of projects is available on the website as well. (Pardon our dust as this resource will return once our website is updated!)
Continued on page 21...
How the NPGA is Working for the Producer
If you’re into podcasts and webinars, the NPGA supports the Growing Pulse Crops podcast and the Pulse Potential webinar series. Or if you prefer, take in a field day or two which are held across the region between June and July. All fantastic ways for producers to stay updated on the latest industry trends and research findings.
Looking ahead to the 2026 crop year, the NPGA is already gearing up.With more than $440,000 from ND Dry Pea & Lentil Council and $100,000 from the Montana Pulse Crop Committee, the NPGA is set to fund groundbreaking research initiatives.The research process kicks off in December, and by the time February rolls around, funding decisions are made.
So there you have it! The NPGA is tirelessly working behind the scenes, ensuring that producer dollars are invested wisely, leading to sustainable growth and success for the farming community Whether you're a producer or just someone interested in agriculture, it's reassurances like these that highlight how the NPGA is dedicated to supporting the backbone of the pulse industry
2025 NPGA Funded Research Project
Award
Eat Pulses Locally
Quick find Pulse Dishes Near You in Bismarck, ND
1. Terra Nomad Offers a Blackbean Burrito Bowl featuring stewed black beans, organic brown rice, pico, and more!
2. The Pita Pit Serves hummus, a classic chickpeabased spread!
3. Bread Poets
This café offers a Garden Dakota sandwich with green hummus (chickpea–spinach spread), and spouted lentils.
4. India Clay Oven
Dal Meat – A hearty dish combining lamb and aromatic lentils, simmered with herbs
The Purpose of Pulses & Possibilities
Why Teaching Kids About Farming and Pulses Matters
Hey, let’s talk about something cool helping kids learn where their food really comes from. It’s not just about knowing that veggies are in the fridge; it’s about understanding the whole journey from farm to table
When kids get to see and learn about farming like how pulses such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans are grown they start to see food as something real and fresh. It’s a great way to spark their curiosity about healthy eating and how their choices can impact the environment.
Teaching them about farming and pulses also makes them smarter grocery shoppers as they grow up. They start to see the value in choosing local or sustainable foods and making mindful decisions about what they put in their carts.
Plus, today’s kids are tomorrow’s decision makers By understanding the story behind pulses and other farm foods, they’re more likely to support farmers, choose healthier options, and even get involved in making our food systems better
So, whether it’s through farm visits, fun cooking classes, or simple lessons about pulses, every bit of education helps build informed, responsible, and healthy future consumers. And that’s something worth celebrating.
Why Teaching Youth About Where Food Comes From Matters
Kids today grow up in a world full of packaged snacks and fast food, but understanding where their food originates is more important than ever When young people learn about the journey of food — from farm to table — they become more conscious consumers and future decision-makers
Knowing how fruits, vegetables, and other foods are grown can spark interest in healthy eating and sustainable choices. It also helps them appreciate the hard work behind their meals and understand the impact of agriculture on the environment. This knowledge encourages kids to make better grocery choices, like picking local or organic options.
Moreover, educating youth about food origins can inspire the next generation of farmers, chefs, or activists who advocate for fair and eco-friendly food systems When children understand the story behind what’s on their plate, they develop a sense of responsibility and a desire to make positive changes
In short, teaching young people about where their food comes from isn’t just educational it’s a way to shape healthier, more thoughtful future consumers and leaders.
NPGA staffer, Sarah Massey has created a publication and little sprouts project to help spread the word on pulse crops and farming to kids
We recently handed out more than 1,000 copies at the Red River Valley Fair, and the response was fantastic. If you're looking for something educational and engaging for your kids this summer—or materials for your classroom, event booth, or local fair— reach out to us! We’d be happy to get some books in your hands.
Dinner on the Prairie
Agriculture is big business in North Dakota generating over $30 billion in economic opportunity and more than 110,000 jobs
Dinner on the Prairie is a farm-to-table event to connect consumers with farmers, ranchers and agriculture experts that fuel that economic engine Together all guests will enjoy a meal of North Dakota grown products and share conversations about food and farming to advance community partnership between businesses, the public, and farm producers while fostering agricultural awareness - Minot Area Chamber Of Commerce
Layton Hrubes, of the North Dakota Dry Pea and Lentil Council said “As a first time attendee, I was struck by how much more there is to North Dakota agriculture than most people realize Sharing a meal with and hearing firsthand from local farmers about their industry opened my eyes and reminded me how important it is to share these stories with others who may have never stepped foot on a farm Every dish was a reminder that our producers grow more than food - they grow connection, resilience, and pride in the land and livestock. As farmers and neighbors gathered together during a beautiful evening, the conversations that were had became the bridges between rural roots and community understanding ”
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Ryan Brooks
The pulse industry bid farewell to a dedicated and passionate leader, Ryan Brooks of Bowman, North Dakota on June 20, 2025. Ryan’s unwavering commitment and significant contributions over his distinguished career have left an indelible mark on the organization and the industry as a whole
Ryan Brooks was first elected to the NPGA in 2007, during the organization’s inaugural year as a joint association representing producers from Montana and North Dakota Throughout his tenure, Ryan demonstrated exceptional leadership and a genuine dedication to advancing the pulse industry He served as the President of NPGA from 2009 to 2012, guiding the organization through important initiatives and fostering collaboration among growers
Beyond his leadership within NPGA, Ryan actively participated in numerous committees, providing invaluable insight and expertise He represented the NPGA on the USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council board of directors and contributed to the national research committee, advocating for research and development efforts that benefited producers nationwide. His contributions extended to various industry boards, including SBARE, the Northern Crops Institute Council, and the North Dakota Agriculture Coalition, where he championed initiatives to strengthen agriculture and promote sustainable practices
A true enthusiast of research and innovation, Ryan’s dedication to the pulse industry was evident through his participation in various industry events and his commitment to educating others Even after stepping down from some roles, his vibrant personality and quick wit made him a beloved figure at pulse industry gatherings, where he often served as the Master of Ceremonies, sharing humorous stories and inspiring those around him.
Remarkably, Ryan’s leadership was recognized once again when he was re-elected to the NPGA Board of Directors in 2022, a testament to the respect and admiration he earned from his colleagues and peers.
Ryan Brooks’s legacy is characterized by his passion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the pulse industry. His contributions have paved the way for future generations of producers and industry advocates. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his life and the immense impact he had on our community
Ryan’s spirit and commitment will continue to inspire all who knew him. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
Eat Pulses Locally
Quick find Pulse Dishes Near You in Great Falls, MT
1.The Hopper
House Salad with Lentil Crunchers
Montana Chikpea Felafel Bowl
2. Saibeen’s Kitchen
Daal Palak- Indian Soup with Black lentils, and chickpeas.
Chana Masala- Chickpea based dish
3. Maria’s Mexican Restaurant Cooked Black Beans as a side
4. Five on Black (Brazilian-inspired spot): vegetarian bowls with beans and lentils
