4 Foreword— Message from the Director 



Montana Agricultural Statistics 1997 



MESSAGE FROM 

 THE DIRECTOR 



Montana's agriculture producers face a 

 multitude of major decisions each year. 

 Decisions such as how many acres to seed, 

 when to market their livestock, how to reduce 

 input costs, and the list goes on. In order to 

 make viable decisions, it is crucial that 

 producers have the most recent information 

 available. This 34th annual edition of Montana 

 Agricultural Statistics provides such 

 information. The information that is provided 

 through the courtesy of Montana producers who 

 are willing to share their data with the rest of the 

 industry. My heartfelt thanks to those 

 individuals. 



As we approach the 21st century, current statistics and information become even more crucial in the 

 decision making process. The department, in conjunction with the Agricultural Statistical Service, will 

 continue to provide that information, be it in printed or electronic format. 



We applaud Montana producers as they continue to be leaders in their industry. 



Sincerely, 



Ralph Peck 

 Director 



