The Montana Farm Bureau Federation is the state’s largest ag organization.  A powerhouse when it comes to representing the opinions of thousands of farmers and ranchers across the state; we know the business of preserving our industry.  Those preservation efforts don’t stop in Helena or even in D.C.; Farm Bureau also recognizes that real preservation means sustaining our family farms and ranches and investing in the next generation. 

Enter the Montana Farm Bureau Foundation.  With a strong emphasis on youth programs, the Foundation supports Montana agriculture through research, education and community development.  In 2017 alone, the Foundation sponsored more than $20,000 in scholarships through partnerships with Montana FFA, Montana 4-H and Ag in the Classroom.  In addition, the Foundation spent $10,000 to support the MFBF YF&R program and helped 30 young agriculturalists to the National Young Farmer and Rancher Leadership Conference.

The Foundation Speech Contest has been around for many years, but recently we’ve partnered with Montana FFA and the speech contest now takes place during the FFA State Convention.  The contest is open to students in the 7th, 8th and 9th grade.  This year’s topic was:

Gus Turner, a 7th grade student from Missoula won this year’s contest with his speech:

These bright, energetic students are the future leaders of Montana agriculture.  Farm Bureau works hard to encourage these students and invest directly into their endeavors as young agriculturalists.  The MFBF Summer Conference is June 12-14th at Fairmont Hotsprings.  On Wednesday evening we have a great night of food, friends and entertainment planned that all benefits the Farm Bureau Foundation.  It’s a wonderful evening and you won’t want to miss out—register here!

You can also donate online and help us bring more resources and opportunities to communities and their youth across our great state!