Agriculture is the number one industry in Montana. But even today there are very serious problems facing the industry. As a fifth generation cattle rancher I have dealt personally with many of the same problems facing Montana farmers and ranchers. I have seen how profits have decreased while costs continually rise. Montana needs to expand its role in the agricultural sector. We need to look into new markets, means and products. In order to keep Montana agriculture strong we must provide the tools to help our producers adapt.
With a new majority in Congress, we have a real opportunity to ensure that Montana farmers and ranchers get the representation they deserve. The Farm Bill Reauthorization is still more than a year away, but I can assure you this year’s bill will have a stronger focus on rural Montana’s needs. Unlike last session’s legislation, I will see to it that rural producers don’t take a back seat to urban special interests that pursue ideological social policies over protecting our family farms.
One way we can help increase profits for Montana farmers and ranchers is to start value-added ventures and producer owned cooperatives. Montana relies too heavily on other states to process our goods. We need to look at new initiatives to keep production local, creating new sectors in the agricultural economy and guarantying solid prices for our products. Many producers in Montana have started using these value-added ventures and producer owned cooperatives and it’s something we need to expand for future generations.
Montana also needs to expand agriculture into new sectors. One major area Montana ag producers are having some success is in specialty crops and ethanol production. With growing demands in these fields we can help meet modern day demands while diversifying our economy.
If Montana agriculture is to succeed, we need to ensure we become more competitive internationally. During my time in Congress I have led trade missions to foreign countries to help solidify Montana products abroad. A major problem facing Montana agriculture is the punitive tariffs imposed on American goods by our competitors. As your Senator I will see to it that the United States does not engage in any unfair trade agreements that hurt Montana farmers and ranchers from being able to compete globally.
As a fellow cattle rancher, I will always make sure that Montana farmers and ranchers have the best opportunities to succeed in the future.