2 Foreword 



1989 Montana Agricultural Statistics 



STAN STEPHENS 



GOVERNOR 



§tatp of fllontana 



©fficp of tl|p (gourrnor 



l^elena, Montana 39620 



406-444-3in 



COMMENTS FROM 

 THE GOVERNOR 



1988 was a year hit hard by drought. 

 However, timely moisture, higher prices, and a 

 general feeling of optimism during this, our 

 centennial year, have resulted in a much 

 improved economic picture in Montana 

 Agriculture. The dedication and hard work of 

 farm and ranch business men and women will 

 continue to have a profound impact on the 

 state as we enter into the 1990's. 



Access to information necessary to make sound business decisions certainly compliments our 

 efforts to improve the business environment in our great state. It is my belief that the 

 information provided through the private-public relationship that has developed with respect 

 to the collection of the agricultural statistics contained in this bulletin is a valuable element 

 of success in the business of agriculture. These statistics help agricultural producers evaluate 

 alternatives and make informed decisions, putting them on a more equal footing in the 

 markets with which they must deal. 



As Governor, my goal is to see Montana prosper, 

 paramount to economic growth. 



A strong agricultural industry is 



Sincerely, 



Stan Stephens 

 Governor 



