Governor Gianforte Proclaims Montana Agriculture Day

Convenes representatives from agricultural industry for roundtable

Governor's Office

HELENA, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte yesterday convened a roundtable discussion with representatives of Montana's agricultural industry to discuss challenges and opportunities facing the farmers and ranchers and to proclaim Tuesday, March 24, 2026, as Montana Agriculture Day.

"Agriculture is Montana's number one industry, supporting jobs, strengthening our communities, and sustaining our way of life," Gov. Gianforte said. "It was great to hear from Montana's agricultural leaders about their challenges and successes as we head into a new season. We'll continue to come alongside our farmers and ranchers to support innovation, expand markets, and protect the industry for generations to come."

Gov. Gianforte proclaiming Tuesday, March 24, 2026, as Montana Agriculture Day

Over a dozen industry partners joined the governor at the roundtable to talk about the benefits of expanding trade opportunities for producers and combatting the worker shortage. During the discussion, leaders shared their perspectives on rising input costs and regulatory challenges, while also identifying opportunities to strengthen Montana's agricultural economy through innovation and expanded trade. The roundtable, first held in 2021, has become an annual tradition for Gov. Gianforte and Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras each March during Montana Agriculture Month.

Participants in the roundtable included leaders from the Montana Stockgrowers Association, Montana Agricultural Business Association, Montana Farm Bureau Federation, Montana Grain Growers Association, and the Montana Wool Growers Association, as well as the Montana Departments of Agriculture and Livestock.

"One of the best aspects of our industry is the people in it," Montana Department of Agriculture Director Streit said. "Whether it is the large food farms or farm to table operations, our farmers and ranchers are the backbone that go to work every day to ensure Montana agriculture thrives for generations to come."

"Our producers take the upmost pride in the world-class products that they raise and the lands they steward," Montana Department of Livestock Director Honeycutt said. "It is an honor support and work for our ranchers as they work tirelessly to power Montana's largest economic driver."

During the month of March, the governor visited with producers and ag-related businesses across the state where he emphasized growing Montana's value-added opportunities and advancing trade efforts to ensure Montana producers can compete in global markets.

View the governor's proclamation here.

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