STATE OF MONfTANA 



MESSAGE FROM THE COMMISSIONER 



I am particularly pleased with the contents of this statistical report, prepared jointly by the 

 Montana Department of Agriculture and the Statistical Reporting Service of the United States 

 Department of Agriculture. 



The economic and social strength of Montana is closely associated with agriculture. There are 

 many factors that influence the amount of economic gain in agriculture, but none so important as 

 facts and statistics. 



Agricultural statistics are an indispensable tool in helping farmers, legislators, agri-business, farm 

 organizations, and state and federal agencies establish and formulate plans for the continued growth of 

 our agriculture and general economy. 



Agriculture production continues to provide the basic foundation for the high standards of living 

 enjoyed by citizens of the United States. Here in Montana, agriculture and it's related agri-business' is 

 the State's number one industry. 



As we move into the seventies, economical changes will place an emphatic value on statistical 

 data. I am most certain the information contained herein will be utilized effectively. 



I wish to express my gratitude to all the people including those within the two departments for 

 their dedicated and untiring efforts in compiling this report. 



Commissioner of Agriculture. 



