NPGA Takes Grower Priorities Directly to Governor Gianforte

Northern Pulse Growers Association leaders recently had an opportunity to take the priorities of Montana pulse producers directly to Governor Greg Gianforte during a September 14 meeting in Helena.

NPGA President McKade Mahlen

NPGA President McKade Mahlen, Montana Field Representative Tom Allen, and Montana Pulse Crop Committee member Tanner Jorgensen met with the Governor to discuss issues affecting pulse producers across the state — from trade and market access to rising production costs and the importance of continued investment in research.

The meeting provided an important opportunity for growers to have a direct voice in conversations affecting Montana agriculture.

Keeping Markets Open

Trade and market development were among the key issues discussed. Montana is one of the

nation's leading pulse-producing states, and access to reliable domestic and international

markets remain critical for dry pea, lentil and chickpea producers.

The group emphasized the importance of maintaining strong trading relationships, protecting

existing markets and continuing to pursue new opportunities for Montana-grown pulses.

With producers facing tighter margins, the discussion also highlighted the impact of fertilizer and other input costs on farm profitability and the importance of policies that support a strong and competitive agricultural economy.

Investing in Research Where Pulses Are Grown

Research was another major focus, particularly the importance of maintaining strong pulse

research capacity in eastern Montana.

NPGA representatives highlighted the work being conducted through Montana State University and the importance of the research presence in Sidney. Located in the heart of one of Montana's most significant pulse-growing regions, the Sidney research program provides an opportunity to address production challenges producers are experiencing directly in their fields.

Continued work on varieties, disease and root rots, herbicide resistance, agronomics and other production challenges will be essential to keeping Montana growers productive and competitive.

The message was straightforward: research conducted where pulses are grown provides direct value back to Montana producers.

A Seat at the Table

For NPGA, meetings like this are an important part of representing growers beyond the farm

gate.

Whether the conversation involves trade, research, agricultural policy or rising production costs, decisions made in Helena and Washington can have very real impacts on the farm.

Having grower leaders, the Montana Pulse Crop Committee and NPGA staff sitting directly

across the table from Montana's Governor helps ensure those decisions are informed by the people producing the crop.

NPGA will continue working to make sure Montana pulse growers have a voice in the

conversations shaping the future of agriculture — and that peas, lentils and chickpeas remain

an important part of Montana's agricultural story.