2004 Montana Agricultural Statistics 



Foreword 3 



Montana's agriculture industry is to be commended for the large contribution it makes to our state's 

 economy while facing the challenges of a worldwide agricultural economy. 



Our agricultural marketplace is not regional or even national; it is global and our farmers, ranchers, and 

 agri-business people must have concise, reliable information to compete in this arena. 



This 41®' issue of the Montana Agriculture Statistics bulletin provides agricultural producers and 

 businesses with the information necessary to make complex marketing and financial decisions to take 

 advantage of opportunities in a dynamic and diverse industry. Whether the decisions are production or 

 market based, sound information is critical for this decision-making process. 



Sincerely, 



Judy H. Martz 

 Governor 



