Montana is a large and diverse state, one in which climate and markets affect the decisions farmers and ranchers 

 mal<e each year, often in the fall. Our state consistently ranks second or third nationally in wheat production and 

 seventh in beef herd size, with cattle and hay grown in every county. 



Montana's regions are important in determining the predominance of its agricultural products. For example, the 

 north-central region produced 70 percent of the state's total canola crop in 2006. Northeastern Montana leads in 

 several categories, including lentils and dry peas. Gallatin County and southwestern Montana lead in potato 

 production. The Northwest is known for its cherries, and the central region leads in cattle and calves and the 

 production of alfalfa hay. 



This yearbook provides a valuable record of Montana's production history. It is used internationally by customers who 

 buy Montana's world famous wheat and durum, and by others, myself included, to pinpoint the production history and 

 concentrations of our crop and livestock products. 



New crops like camelina are entering Montana's crop picture. Oil seeds hold potential for food, bio-fuels, bio- 

 lubricants, industrial chemicals, and protein-rich meal for livestock feed. Ventures that combine energy and food 

 processing with livestock feeding or dairy production are being considered in several rural communities. New uses 

 for commodities, and new processing and marketing opportunities, will enhance our rural communities and add value 

 for producers in Montana's number one industry. 



If you have ideas about agricultural business opportunities for Montana, use the comment form on our website, 

 www.governor.mt.gov or give my office a call at (406) 444-31 1 1 . 



Sincerely, 



2iU- 



Brian Schweitzer, -governor 



2007 Montana Agricultural Statistics 



Foreword 3 



