HD3 - Debo Powers (D) HD4 - Lindsey Jordan (D) HD6 - Velvet Phillips-Sullivan (D) HD7 Arther Fretheim (D) HD11 Jennifer Allen (D) HD12 - Tracy Sharp (R) HD13 Shirley Azzopardi (D) HD14 Paul Fielder (R)HD14 Colleen Hinds (D)HD16 Elaine Mitchell (R)HD20 Rina Fontana-Moore (D)HD22 Ronald Pualick (D)
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods.
Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture.
Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Create a state-funded grant program to support schools in purchasing Montana grown foods.
Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food.
Increase funding for wages for school nutrition staff to increase capacity for cooking high-quality meals.
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience.
Integrate Livestock: Grazing animals can enhance soil health by cycling nutrients, breaking up compacted soil, and promoting plant diversity.
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Supplemental Nutrition Incentive Program
Double SNAP Dollars
Food Banks and Food Pantries
Montana Produce Prescription Program
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Yes
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods.
Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture.
Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Create a state-funded grant program to support schools in purchasing Montana grown foods.
Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food.
Increase funding for wages for school nutrition staff to increase capacity for cooking high-quality meals.
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience/
Integrate Livestock: Grazing animals can enhance soil health by cycling nutrients, breaking up compacted soil, and promoting plant diversity
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Supplemental Nutrition Incentive Program
Double SNAP Dollars
Food Banks and Food Pantries
Montana Produce Prescription Program
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
Toggle Content goes here
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Toggle Content goes here
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
Toggle Content goes here
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods.
Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture.
Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.
Also educate food producers on importance of paying a living wage.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Create a state-funded grant program to support schools in purchasing Montana grown foods.
Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food.
Increase funding for wages for school nutrition staff to increase capacity for cooking high-quality meals.
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil.
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
All of the above.
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
I have been learning about Aero’s 33 by 33 program and am interested in supporting their work. I think local processing is critical and labor training/apprenticeship programs are key as well.
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Yes.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
I was on the board for Farmhands
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods.
Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture.
Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Create a state-funded grant program to support schools in purchasing Montana grown foods.
Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food.
Increase funding for wages for school nutrition staff to increase capacity for cooking high-quality meals.
Free school lunch and breakfast for all students.
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience.
Integrate Livestock: Grazing animals can enhance soil health by cycling nutrients, breaking up compacted soil, and promoting plant diversity.
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Supplemental Nutrition Incentive Program, Double SNAP Dollars, Food Banks and Food Pantries, Montana Produce Prescription Program, WIC
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
Toggle Content goes here
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Yes.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
I would be interested in seeing what could be done for buffalo reintroduction/farming, the availability of native game meats in general and support for “victory gardens” in urban areas.
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods., Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture., Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Create a state-funded grant program to support schools in purchasing Montana grown foods, Increase funding for wages for school nutrition staff to increase capacity for cooking high-quality meals
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.,
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.,
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.,
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience,
Integrate Livestock: Grazing animals can enhance soil health by cycling nutrients, breaking up compacted soil, and promoting plant diversity
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
It wouldn’t let me check ALL OF THE ABOVE, which is my answer
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
Not at this time. Sound like we should revisit the Soil Health Study.
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Yes.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
I am deeply concerned by the impacts of warming, extreme weather, and drought on our agricultural sector. We are already late to act.
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
I support the removal of incentives and/or governmental regulatory obstacles to community-based programs created, funded, and run by the local citizenry. I do not believe the State nor the Federal governments can continue to operate is if they have bottomless pockets, for I believe that leads to irresponsible use of the citizen’s tax dollars.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
No.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
I support removal of administrative and regulatory obstacles; not in creating yet more and more State-run, tax-funded programs. At some point, we will run out of “other people’s money.”
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Only if it can be done at no additional cost to the Montana taxpayer.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
I support the removal of incentives and/or governmental regulatory obstacles to community-based programs created, funded, and run by the local citizenry. I do not believe the State nor the Federal governments can continue to operate is if they have bottomless pockets, for I believe that leads to irresponsible use of the citizen’s tax dollars.
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
No.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
Toggle Content goes here
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Maybe – I would like more information.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
I support Montana agriculture. I support removing legislative, regulatory, and judicial impediments that burden our agricultural industries. I do not support a “more programs” approach to governance in any industry. If we do not clear away the spider-web of overlapping laws, programs, and regulations heaped upon our industries time and time again, we will weigh down the producers to such an extent our own government will destroy their ability to thrive. We need less government; less “programs”; and less of the government’s greedy hand involved in our agriculture and our businesses.
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods., Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture., Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Create a state-funded grant program to support schools in purchasing Montana grown foods, Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food, Increase funding for wages for school nutrition staff to increase capacity for cooking high-quality meals
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.,
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.,
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.,
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience,
Integrate Livestock: Grazing animals can enhance soil health by cycling nutrients, breaking up compacted soil, and promoting plant diversity
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Double SNAP Dollars
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
Not at this point, I would be willing to , but would need support and help gathering information. And I need to get elected first!
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Yes.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
I support Montana agriculture. I support removing legislative, regulatory, and judicial impediments that burden our agricultural industries. I do not support a “more programs” approach to governance in any industry. If we do not clear away the spider-web of overlapping laws, programs, and regulations heaped upon our industries time and time again, we will weigh down the producers to such an extent our own government will destroy their ability to thrive. We need less government; less “programs”; and less of the government’s greedy hand involved in our agriculture and our businesses.
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
No.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
None of these options.
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.,
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.,
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.,
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience.
Integrate Livestock: Grazing animals can enhance soil health by cycling nutrients, breaking up compacted soil, and promoting plant diversity
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Food Banks and Food Pantries
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Maybe – I would like more information
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
No.
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Maybe – I would like more information
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
Not at this time
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods., Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture., Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.,
Encourage small family farms and promote 4-H/ Maybe some kind of tax incentive??
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Create a state-funded grant program to support schools in purchasing Montana grown foods, Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food, Increase funding for wages for school nutrition staff to increase capacity for cooking high-quality meals,
I would love to see local food to local schools/ there should be a way to accomplish this!
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience.
Integrate Livestock: Grazing animals can enhance soil health by cycling nutrients, breaking up compacted soil, and promoting plant diversity
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Supplemental Nutrition Incentive Program, Double SNAP Dollars, Food Banks and Food Pantries, Montana Produce Prescription Program, Farm to Schools/ 4-H
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
I am a newbie/ My background is 38 years as an R.N./ Hospital Supervisor/ I grew up on a Minnesota Dairy Farm that was my Grandfather’s.
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Yes.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
I am a member of Montana Farmer’s Union/ I wholeheartedly support the efforts of Agriculture in Montana for nutritious food available locally. I am excited to be a part of bringing good legislation to our food producers. Thank-you.
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods., Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food.
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Food Banks and Food Pantries
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Maybe – I would like more information.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
None started at this time
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Maybe – I would like more information.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
Toggle Content goes here
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food.
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Supplemental Nutrition Incentive Program, Double SNAP Dollars, Food Banks and Food Pantries, Montana Produce Prescription Program
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes.
Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below:
No.
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Yes.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
I look forward to working with you.
Do you think Montana should expand processing of Montana-grown food for our citizens?
Yes.
In order to expand in-state processing of locally grown and raised food for residents, other states have created workforce training programs in food processing and expanded grant opportunities for small and mid-scale processors. Please select any of the following measures you think Montana should explore.
Create a state-funded grant program for building and expanding processing capacity for Montana-grown and raised foods., Develop a workforce training program for butchers and meat cutters in partnership with the Montana Department of Agriculture., Increase funding and capacity for food safety education and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HAACP) training through MSU course offerings.
Do you support the Country of Origin of Labeling (COOL) requirements for beef and pork, knowing that this is a requirement for other foods, including chicken and lamb?
Yes.
Are you supportive of allocating funds within the state budget to help Montana school authorities access locally sourced and processed foods?
Yes.
What suggestions do you have for supporting schools in offering higher-quality school meals?
Provide state-funded partial reimbursement for schools’ purchases of Montana grown food, Increase funding for wages for school nutrition staff to increase capacity for cooking high-quality meals.
As described above, Montana currently has successful agriculturally focused educational programs that involve students and community members to learn more about where their food comes from and the farmers who produce it. Would you like to see these programs, or something similar, increased to more school districts?
Yes.
There are five basic practices that can support approaches to fostering the long-term productivity and sustainability of soil in Montana’s agricultural lands. Are you familiar with any of these practices? Check all that apply:
Maximize Presence of Living Roots: Encourage continuous plant growth by having living roots in the soil as much as possible. This enhances soil structure and nutrient cycling.
Minimize Disturbance: Avoid excessive tilling or other practices that disrupt the soil. Minimizing disturbance helps maintain soil structure and prevents erosion.
Maximize Soil Cover: Keep the soil covered with vegetation, crop residues, or cover crops. Soil cover protects against erosion, conserves moisture, and supports microbial activity.
Maximize Biodiversity: Diverse plant species and beneficial organisms contribute to a healthy soil ecosystem. Biodiversity improves nutrient cycling and resilience.
Integrate Livestock: Grazing animals can enhance soil health by cycling nutrients, breaking up compacted soil, and promoting plant diversity
Programs like the ones described above help Montanans access fresh, nutritious, locally grown products as a way to reduce healthcare costs. Please check the boxes of the programs you support/would like to expand:
Supplemental Nutrition Incentive Program, Double SNAP Dollars, Food Banks and Food Pantries, Montana Produce Prescription Program
Do you support the continued funding of the Montana Food & Agriculture Development Centers?
Yes.
" Are you drafting any legislation in the agricultural sector for the 2025 legislative session? If so, please share the details below: "
Not at this time, but if you are please let me know.
Are you interested in working with Grow Montana to draft and/or propose legislation during the 2025 legislative session?
Yes.
Is there anything else you would like to share with Grow Montana Food Policy Coalition?
I am an AERO member and have been for decades.
Candidates that did not complete survey, HD 1 – 22
| HD1 | Neil | Duram | R |
| HD1 | Dakota | Adams | D |
| HD2 | Tom | Millett | R |
| HD2 | Elizabeth | Story | D |
| HD3 | Cathy | Mitchell | R |
| HD4 | Lyn | Bennett | R |
| HD5 | Braxton | Mitchell | R |
| HD5 | Steve | Paugh | D |
| HD6 | Amy | Regier | R |
| HD7 | Courtenay | Sprunger | R |
| HD8 | Lukas | Schubert | R |
| HD8 | Beth | Sibert | D |
| HD9 | Steven | Kelly | R |
| HD9 | Joanne | Morrow | D |
| HD10 | Terry | Falk | R |
| HD10 | Devin | Marconi | R |
| HD11 | Edward | Byrne | R |
| HD12 | Barry | Olson | D |
| HD13 | Linda | Reksten | R |
| HD15 | Ralph | Foster | R |
| HD15 | Thedis | Crowe | D |
| HD16 | Tyson | Runningwolf | D |
| HD17 | Zack | Wirth | R |
| HD17 | Leonard | Bates | D |
| HD18 | Llew | Jones | R |
| HD18 | David | Arends | D |
| HD19 | Jane | Webber | D |
| HD19 | Hannah | Trebas | R |
| HD20 | Melissa | Nikolakakos | R |
| HD21 | Ed | Buttrey | R |
| HD21 | Lela | Graham | D |
| HD21 | Joshua | Rosales | L |
| HD22 | George | Nikolakakos | R |
Since 2005, Grow Montana has advocated for changes in state policies that would strengthen Montana’s food and agriculture economies. The coalition has since led projects on food systems research, producing education materials, and stewarded policy change to support Montana’s food producers.
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