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MT Stockgrowers attend Young Ag Leadership ConferenceMontana The 4th Annual Young Ag Leadership Conference drew more than 170 participants to Great Falls on Oct. 12 to 14 to discuss the challenges that face the next generation of Montana's farming and ranching community. Hosted by eight Montana agricultural organizations, the three-day conference featured thought-provoking speakers and workshop presenters urging participants to take the lead in shaping the future of Montana agriculture. The Montana Stockgrowers Association, Montana Farm Bureau Federation, Montana FFA Foundation, Montana 4-H Foundation, Montana Grain Growers Association, Montana State University College of Agriculture, and Montana Cattlemen's Association worked together to present the conference. Tremendous assistance and sponsorship from businesses throughout Montana and beyond helped make the event possible. The conference is designed to bring together young agricultural producers and professionals, ages 18 to 40, from all organizations and commodity groups to network, share ideas, and learn from industry leaders. The Stockgrowers continue to support the conference because they are concerned about the future of agriculture. These young people are the future of the industry and this event helps to develop them into strong leaders that will carry on our traditions and way of life. "I was really pleased to see MSGA so well represented at this year's YALC," said Dusty Hahn, Young Stockgrower member and MSGA Research and Education Endowment Foundation Board Director. "A number of our members and staff were involved in the seminars, discussion group, and social functions. Montana Stockgrowers and REEF were recognized as sponsors both in print and from the stage. MSGA was represented in a positive and professional manner by its staff and membership who contributed so much to make this such a great event." The event kicked off Oct. 12 with a Poker Night at the C.M. Russell Museum. The evening was a great opportunity to relax and play a few hands of poker with friends, tour the artwork of C.M. Russell, and network with participants. Activities Oct. 13 began with breakfast and a motivational speech by Dave Pratt with Ranch Management Consultants. The workshops that followed allowed participants to learn more about the issues affecting their operation. The line-up featured knowledgeable speakers on profitable ranching, sustainable farming, tourism, biofuels, and personal development. Senator Jesse Laslovich of Anaconda, Mont., joined the group for lunch to speak about the importance of youth and our role in society. Senator Laslovich commented that being young is an asset, not a disadvantage. Back by popular demand, two discussion groups, livestock and crops, offered participants a chance to share their own opinions and ask tough questions of industry experts. Panelists included staff from Montana's Congressional delegation and Legislature, as well as representation from national and state agricultural organizations. Discussion groups again reinforced the need for young producers to get involved. The conference wrapped up with hypnotist, Dr. Al Snyder and music by Shane Clouse and Stomping Ground. The morning breakfast session Oct. 14, with Rick Haines from the Independent Ag Network of Idaho, recapped the importance of participating in the industry and being active in respective organizations within the state. "It was a great opportunity to get involved in the agricultural industry," said Shawn "Tater" Erickson, Young Stockgrower Chairman and 2007 YALC Chairman. "YALC gives young producers the opportunity to develop their own agricultural business." Date: 11/15/07
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