Montana

At the conclusion of their joint annual convention with the Montana Stockgrowers Association in Billings, the Montana Grain Growers Association (MGGA) elected officers, installed new board members and set the organization's policy for 2006. These actions put the finishing touches on a successful 50th annual MGGA convention, attended by over 1,100 farmers, ranchers and guests.

Installed as MGGA president for 2006 is Jon Stoner, a Wheat producer from Havre. Elected as vice-president is Darin Arganbright of Carter. Other officers are treasurer, Will Roehm of Great Falls and secretary, Bing Von Bergen of Moccasin. Keith Schott of Broadview will serve as past president.

Newly elected to the MGGA Board of Directors are Dan Works of Loma representing District 5 and Dan Emerson of Ronan representing District 7.

"I'm looking forward to leading the organization over the coming year and working closely with the board and membership," stated Jon Stoner, newly-elected MGGA president. "We've got a lot of work in front of us, not the least of which is helping to write the 2007 farm bill. Combine that with other priorities like helping producers manage high energy costs and our fight to get equitable rail rates and the list grows quickly. I've already hit the ground running."

As part of the convention, the MGGA membership approved the organization's policy positions for the coming year. These resolutions guide the MGGA, its leadership and staff on a myriad of issues that directly affect the livelihood of Wheat and barley producers. "Our membership has given us clear direction," Stoner added, "and we'll do our best to deliver." The 2005 resolutions can be found on the MGGA website at www.mgga.org/mgga/res.html.