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Department Mission 

 Ka OMTA M A "^'^ protect producers and consumers and to enhance and 



put ni e 11 1 o t" develop agriculture and allied industries. " 



CULTURE 



Director Ron de Yong, (406) 444-3144 



Central Services Administrator: Kathy Seacat 



Attorney: Cort Jensen 



Public Information Officer: Ron Zellar 



Department Programs & Background 



The Montana Department of Agriculture operates some 30 programs, many funded entirely through 

 producer fees. These include regulatory programs that protect producers, consumers and the 

 environment, and development and marketing programs to add value to Montana's agriculture. The 

 Director's Office serves as an advocate for Montana agriculture in national and international forums and is 

 committed to promoting, protecting and enhancing Montana's No. 1 industry. 



Agricultural Development Division 



Deputy Director/Administrator: Joel A. Clairmont, (406) 444-2402 



Growth Through Agriculture supports entrepreneurs and has invested in 335 value-added projects 

 since 1989, for a total investment of more than $10.6 million. Examples: 



■ Marketing and development support for alternative crops and food products such as Indian rice 

 grass, gluten free hull-less oat flour, malting barley, fresh fruits, soup mixes, breakfast cereal, beef 

 jerky, sauces and other processed foods. 



■ Non-food and industrial products - including bio-lubricants, bio-diesel and ethanol projects. 



Rural Development finance programs have a combined loan portfolio of more than $3 million. 



State Hail Insurance insured 1.7 million acres in 2006, for a total risk coverage of $60 million. 



State Grain Laboratory annually performs tests for grade, protein, germination, baking qualities and 

 other characteristics on more than 23,500 samples, including more than 500 on peas, beans and lentils. 

 The Great Falls facility is the only federally licensed grain lab in Montana. 



Wheat & Barley Committee annually hosts an average of 13 foreign trade delegations and 63 visitors 

 from seven nations that have an interest in purchasing Montana grains. The Committee represents 

 producers on transportation issues, education, research, and market development. 



2007 Montana Agricultural Statistics General 5 



