ANNUAL REPORT 2024–2025 STAKEHOLDERS
GROWING TOGETHER
Pulse crops have become a big part of the Northern Tier farm economy regardless of growers facing shifting markets, changing production methods, and new policies. NPGA activities for FY24.25 have brought practical education, smarter marketing, focused research, and better government communication to assist with farmers success.
We have offered training and resources so farmers have been able to use the latest agronomy and sustainability practices, boost yields, and protect soil health Our marketing work has increased visibility and helped consumers understand how nutritious pulses are, increasing demand at home and abroad. Research projects have focused on crop resilience, and weed and disease management, and addressing priorities producers have identified We have also kept regular communication with government agencies and representatives so producers have received support and advocacy when it mattered.
The NPGA has led efforts to expand market opportunities, raise awareness of pulses’ sustainability and health benefits, and coordinate research and education across the region As a result, producers have strengthened their role in meeting growing global demand while gaining agronomic benefits on their farms.
PRODUCER ENGAGEMENT & EDUCATION
The NPGA education program focuses on enhancing producer profitability and promoting acreage development It provides ongoing opportunities for producers to learn about the benefits of planting pulses, such as nitrogen-fixing properties, sustainability, low water usage, improvement of soil health, interruption of disease cycles in other crops, potential yield increases for future crops, and reduced input costs
In recent years, there’s been a significant shift in how information gets shared and received. NPGA surveys show a divide among producers who prefer face-to-face meetings and those who lean towards online or hybrid options, with a growing preference for online educational resources The NPGA is committed to understanding the evolving needs of its audience and is always looking for new ways to adapt to these changing preferences.
The NPGA education program focuses on enhancing producer profitability and promoting acreage development.
Additionally, the NPGA focuses on expanding its communication channels to effectively engage diverse stakeholders, including producers, consumers, agencies, and others The organization actively advocates pulse producers on regional issues, like stimulus payment calculations and transportation challenges. By participating in agricultural roundtables and policy events, the NPGA makes sure that producer voices are heard. The collaborations and input with USA Pulses further supports producers
MARKETING
The main goals of NPGA marketing efforts are to raise awareness, promote the use, and boost sales of pulse crops worldwide for our producers. NPGA uses various strategies to showcase pulses as nutritious, cost-effective foods with functional benefits that cater to value-added markets It’s essential for us to communicate to consumers that our region is a source of safe, high-quality products.
It’s
essential for us to communicate to consumers that our region is a source of safe, highquality products.
NPGA actively builds relationships with key figures in the health and food industries who can influence consumption patterns Engaging with youth is a crucial part of shaping future consumption habits By collaborating with partners, we not only highlight the nutritional advantages of pulses but also tackle important questions about food sourcing, safety, and sustainability. Since today’s youth are well-informed about global issues, it’s vital to establish a direct link between the farm and the table.
RESEARCH COORDINATION
Research plays a vital role in ensuring the profitability of producers by tackling current challenges and preventing future economic losses. Plus, developing value-added markets opens up new avenues for producers Each year, the NPGA receives over $300,000 in North Dakota producers' check-off funds for regional research projects aimed at addressing challenges identified by producers in Montana and North Dakota. Many of these projects result in collaborations that span state borders.
The NPGA has worked hard to protect the interests of producers in this area since it began Whether providing funding directly for the MSU pulse diagnostic lab, offering research technical support, or advocating on behalf of the research community, the NPGA prioritizes these efforts for producers.
Additionally, the NPGA has made substantial contributions to programs that benefit the entire region Besides supporting research efforts directly in Montana, the NPGA successfully helped establish the nation’s first pulse quality lab at North Dakota State University. Furthermore, the NPGA not only initiated but also leveraged North Dakota State funds to set up a pulse breeding program, a pathology program, pulse-specific work at the Northern Crops Institute, and most recently, a protein extraction lab in the Peltier Complex
GOVERNMENT EDUCATION
The NPGA ensures that lawmakers hear firsthand about the realities of pulse production risk management needs, research priorities, conservation practices, and market development challenges. In collaboration with USA Pulses, NPGA representatives carry the message of the industry. Each year, policy positions are reviewed & finalized by the NPGA membership at the NPGA Annual Convention
Kevin Wolsky (NDDPLC), Carrington ND representing pulse industry at Senator Hoeven farm bill roundtable
It’s essential for us to communicate to consumers that our region is a source of safe, highquality products.
The NPGA amplifies farmer voices by joining coalitions and coordinated calls to action with other commodity groups, extension services, and advocacy organizations These joint efforts create unified, evidence-based asks whether for increased research funding, improved crop insurance provisions, trade promotion, or infrastructure investments. By aligning with partners and mobilizing grassroots engagement, NPGA helps secure policy outcomes that strengthen the pulse sector’s resilience and long-term viability.
Kim Saueressig (NDDPLC Chair), McClusky ND representing pulse industry at Senator Hoeven meeting with Brooke Rollings, US Secretary of Ag.
TRUSTED LEADERSHIP FOR THE NORTHERN TIER
Founded in 2007, the NPGA brings together producers from Montana and North Dakota with a shared goal of boosting profitability through education, market development, and tackling agronomic challenges The Association is governed by a producer-led Board dedicated to the success of the regional industry, earning recognition and respect within the state. Unique factors like marketing opportunities, research needs, and crop insurance requirements set the Northern Tier region apart from others, highlighting the importance of strong grassroots representation built over years of relationship-building.
Grower-led board, elected by their peers representing Montana & North Dakota producers.
NPGA President McCabe at USA Pulses meeting in Rapid City, SD
GROWING TOGETHER
Supporting Northern Tier Producers & Industry Success
Here’s a look at some of the activities the NPGA completed in FY24.25. The Board and staff work hard to make sure that Northern Tier producers get top-notch representation, no matter which state they grow pulses in After decades of building relationships and collaborating, the NPGA has earned trust across the entire agriculture industry Our Board and staff are frequently consulted by representatives from other commodities and industries on important issues affecting the ag sector as a whole.
PRODUCER EDUCATION/ENGAGEMENT
FOR THE FARMERS, SIDNEY MT GATE, GLENDIVE MT MATE, BILLINGS MT
MGGA CONVENTION 24’ HIGHLIGHTED COMMODITY WITH PNW CANOLA
MABA/MGEA CONVENTION/PESTICIDE WORKSHOP, GREAT FALLS
KATQ NE, SIDNEY MT FARM EXPO
WESTERN AG NETWORK 2024-25 CAMPAIGN
NORTHERN AG NETWORK 2024-25 CAMPAIGN
RED RIVER FARM NETWORK 2024-25 CAMPAIGN
KMOT AGEXPO 2025
MARKETING
PULSE POTENTIAL WEBINAR SERIES COLLABORATION WITH NCI—IN ITS 3 YEAR RD
ND COMMON GROUND SPONSORSHIP OF MOVIE FROM THE HEARTLAND
ADVERTISING IN FUTURE FARMER, NDSU BISON, PARENTING PUBLICATION
ND STATE FAIR CROP PLOT 2025, MINOT ND SIGNAGE & CROP PLOT
ND FARM TO TABLE TOURS WILLISTON, MINOT & DICKINSON, ND
MARKETING-YOUTH
MONTANA TEAM NUTRITION/HARVEST OF THE MONTH SPONSOR
NDSU EAT SMART. PLAY HARD CAMPAIGN SPONSOR
JUNIOR CHEF COMPETITION-FAMILY WELLNESS, FARGO ND SPONSOR
NORTHERN CROPS INSTITUTE SUMMER AG ACADEMY SPONSOR
ND FFA BLUECOAT SPONSOR
GOVERNMENT EDUCATION
MONTANA AG DAY AT CAPITOL FARM BILL ROUNDTABLES
NATIONAL AG INDUSTRY LETTERS/CALL TO ACTIONS
ND AG DAY AT CAPITOL
ND COMMODITY LEGISLATIVE TOUR (FRESHMAN LEGISLATORS)
ND COUNCILS/ASSOCIATIONS PUBLICATION FOR LEGISLATORS
ND COMMODITIES ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
RED RIVER FARM NETWORK LEGISLATIVE MINUTE
USADPLC WASHINGTON DC MISSION
RESEARCH
MONTANA AG DAY AT CAPITOL FARM BILL ROUNDTABLES
NATIONAL AG INDUSTRY LETTERS/CALL TO ACTIONS
ND AG DAY AT CAPITOL
ND COMMODITY LEGISLATIVE TOUR (FRESHMAN LEGISLATORS)
ND COUNCILS/ASSOCIATIONS PUBLICATION FOR LEGISLATORS
ND COMMODITIES ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
RED RIVER FARM NETWORK LEGISLATIVE MINUTE
USADPLC WASHINGTON DC MISSION
COMMUNICATION/OUTREACH
FACEBOOK, TIKTOK, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER
NORTHERNPULSE.COM
PULSE NEWS (QUARTERLY NPGA NEWSLETTER)
MEMBER EMAILS SECTION 32, FOOD AID SOLICITATIONS
NPGA HIGHLIGHT REEL
2024.25
USA Pulses hosted Annual Washington DC Mission 2025Montana delegation
NPGA Executive Director representing producers at crop insurance roundtable
USA Pulses hosted Annual Washington DC Mission 2025North Dakota delegation
NPGA HIGHLIGHT REEL
2024.25
Annual Industry Research Review in Montana 2025
USA Pulses and fellow bean industry representatives at Northern Crops Institute, Fargo ND
Todd Scholz, USA Pulses attending NPGA Research Poster Session & Social 2025
NPGA HIGHLIGHT REEL
2024.25
Tom Allen, Montana Field Rep visiting with producers at event
For the Farmers event, Sidney MT in 2025.
ND FFA students creating hummus product for a marketing competition
INSIGHTS THAT MATTER
A deep dive into NPGA’s research success
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 US 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!)
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.
NPGA Research Funded Projects Crop Year 2025
NPGA LEADERSHIP TEAM
Directors:
Tyler Han, Inverness MT, District I
Blake Rasmussen, Plentywood MT, District II
Ryan Kopp, Fairview MT, District III
McKade Mahlen, Sidney MT, At Large
Matt McCabe, Ekalaka MT, At Large
Sam Arnson, Williston ND, District IV
Ryan Davidson, Tioga ND, District V
Gary Steier, Hettinger ND, District VI
Vacant, At Large
Kevin Haas, Jamestown ND, District VII
Associate Directors:
Dr Audrey Kalil, Horizon Resources
Dr. Frankie Crutcher, MSU
Matt McCabe Mckade Mahlen
Blake Rasmussen Gary Steier President Treasurer VIce President Secretary
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
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.
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.
