Agriculture

Published: 2019
By Jessica Murray

As the largest annual forage producing county in the state, Beaverhead County farmers and ranchers must be cautious of high nitrate concentrations in feed. Barley, oats, and triticale were the most common nitrate-accumulating small grains grown. This year, Beaverhead County MSU Extension conducted 78 nitrate tests. Using information from these tests, livestock producers were able to make decisions about the class of livestock and the ration to be fed. With over 150,000 beef cattle and 15,000 sheep, animal agriculture is one of the largest economic drivers in Beaverhead County. The Southwest Montana Stockmen’s Association (SWMSA) and Beaverhead County Livestock Protective Committee (LPC) partner with the Beaverhead County MSU Extension to provide resources for ranchers. The LPC generates funds from local livestock producers to help safeguard the local animal agriculture industry. The SWMSA provides a forum for producers to learn about legislation, rules, and regulations that will affect their operation. This association of roughly 75 ranches and agricultural businesses meets twice a year to discuss the latest ranching challenges and triumphs. The Noxious Weed Seed Free Forage (NWSFF) program is vital to maintain the ecological integrity of our public lands. Seven returning growers and one new grower participated in the NWSFF program through having 544 acres of forage inspected. In addition to gaining a new participant, 4-H members enrolled in the Weeds project shadowed the inspector to learn throughout the year.