Foreword 



MESSAGE FROM 

 THE DIRECTOR 



Montana's agricultural marketplace is ever changing, with an expansion 

 in new crops and crop varieties and enhancements in historically 

 important commodities. Malt barley production is expected to increase 

 greatly with the addition of two new malt barley facilities in Sidney and 

 Great Falls. The companies that made these investments did their 

 homework, and are well aware of Montana's production capability and 

 the location of improvements such as sprinkler irrigation. Agricultural 

 statistics are an important tool in gauging the potential of new 

 agricultural endeavors. 



The 40th annual edition of Montana Agricultural Statistics provides such 

 information. This information is provided through the courtesy of 

 Montana producers who are willing to share their data with the rest of 

 the industry. My deepest appreciation to those individuals. 



As we encounter more global competition, current statistics and 

 information become even more crucial in the decision making process. 

 The department, in conjunction with the Montana Agricultural Statistical 

 Service, will continue to provide that information, be it in printed or 

 electronic format. 



Sincerely, 



Ralph Peck, Director 



Notes from the 

 State Statistician 



Once again Montana Agricultural Statistics Service is proud to publish the 

 40'" edition of Montana Agricultural Statistics. Montana's agricultural 

 sector continues to exceed two billion dollars and is a vital industry for 

 Montana's economy. Montana dropped to seventh place in ranking 

 among states exporting wheat and wheat products for fiscal year 2002, 

 due to drought reduced production. Thank you to Montana's farmers, 

 ranchers, and agribusinesses who made this publication possible 

 through their willingness to provide basic agricultural information. 



Montana Agricultural Statistics Service works in cooperation with the 

 Montana Department of Agriculture, the Montana Wheat and Barley 

 Committee, the Montana Alfalfa Seed Committee, Montana State 

 University and many other producers' organizations to provide valuable 

 agricultural information. Thanks to everyone who made this publication 

 possible. 



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