MSGA holds 137th MidYear Meeting

The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) wrapped up its 137th MidYear Meeting on Friday, June 11 in Lewistown, Montana. The event hosted over 150 attendees who gathered for three days of education, policy, fellowship and fun.

Governor Greg Gianforte opened the event at the Opening General Session and gave attendees updates on the 67th Montana Legislature and The Red Tape Task Force, among other priorities of the governor’s office. Also in attendance, NCBA’s President-Elect, Don Schiefelbein, share updates from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA).

The Joe C King & Sons Ranch, owned by Chris and Gari King out of Winnett, Montana, were announced as the 2021 Montana Environmental Stewardship Program winner for their work in grazing management. Each year, the ESAP award recognizes a Montana ranch that exemplifies environmental stewardship and demonstrates a commitment toward improved sustainability within the beef industry.

The evening followed with the Sunset After Party Banquet and Dance hosted at the Eagles Club where the Montana Stockgrowers Foundation (MSF) held an auction and raffle. Proceeds raised by MSF help ensure the future of Montana’s cattle industry through producer and public education, and promotion of MSGA programs. Attendees also had a bit of fun as the Bent Willows took the stage and provided the music for the dance.

Friday morning started with a bang as Zoe Ann Stoltz, Reference Historian for the Montana Historical Society, gave an engaging presentation on the history of Montana brands. The crowd also heard from Ethan Wilfore, of the Department of Livestock as he gave an update on the ongoing brand rerecord.

The morning session closed with MSGA member, Ed Lord, announcing the donation of his “C Hanging U” brand to MSF, which will be auctioned off virtually from June to November. Those interested in acquiring the brand can text ‘mtbrand’ to 843-606-5995 to start bidding!

During Closing General Session, Karen Budd Falen packed the house and gave an enlightening presentation on the Biden Administration’s 30 by 30 Initiative and what ranchers can expect in the coming years.

The MidYear Meeting is one of two meetings that is held to set association policy that guides the Association through the year. While the main focus of the meeting is for the setting of interim policy, MSGA also uses the meeting as a networking opportunity for the MSGA membership.

For more information on MSGA or the MidYear Meeting, visit http://www.mtbeef.org