Fergus County Extension

Published: 2022
By Cody Ream

Fergus County is located in the heart of Montana with Lewistown acting as the county seat while Petroleum County sits just east with the county seat in Winnett. Most of the population is located in Fergus County with around 11,617 people compared to the estimated 519 individuals in Petroleum County. These two counties consist of 6,024 square miles, and both are bordered by the Missouri River to the north and the Big Snowy Mountains to the south. The local economy is dominated by agricultural production with approximately $64 million in cash receipts from livestock and crops. Crops like winter and spring wheat, barley, and hay are the major crops produced, with an additional 66,000 beef cows and heifers. Youth development activities are significant, as demonstrated by a 4-H program that includes 228 youth members and 72 adult leaders.