Working for You

Working for You

Each month we provide some key areas where MGGA leaders and staff have been working on your behalf. Here is a sampling of important issues and activities for March 2022:

*EVP Vergeront has engaged with Pacific Northwest Region Lower Snake River Coalition to help share the support and benefits of the four Lower Snake River Dams in Washington State. MGGA has joined this coalition to oppose the idea of dam breaching to the PNW region and the Nation, particularly considering recent proposals to study, evaluate, or authorize removal of the 4 Lower Snake River Dams. Vergeront has participated in several congressional meetings with members of the Senate Environment & Public Works and House Transportation & Infrastructure Committees.

*Leadership participated in the Winter Seminar series with Montana Seed Growers Association. Dr. Jason Cook, Spring Wheat Breeder, Montana State University spoke about “MT Spring Wheat Breeding and Genetics.” On February 8th – Cassidy Marn, Executive Director, MT Wheat & Barley Committee and Staff presented on “Your Checkoff Dollars at Works, an update from MW&B.”

*MGGA Winter Board Meeting took place in Great Falls for two days of Strategic Planning. Sarah Bohenkamp from Colorado facilitated and we had a very productive time. EVP Vergeront is working with leadership and Sarah on next steps and implementation…stay tuned for more!

*Past President Konen and Treasurer Heilig participated in the virtual National Barley Growers Association board meeting. Top line items discussed included; disaster assistance, research, Farm Bill and trade. Konen and Heilig also spoke with the Montana Congressional delegation on the impacts Barley growers are experiencing.

*After many years in the making, the Montana Grains Foundation hosted a celebratory dinner for the donors of the Norm Asbjornson Plant Sciences Endowed Chair. MGGA looks forward to working with Dr. Mendu as he serves as the chair.

*MGGA Officers hosted a virtual listening session to give an association update, discuss policy and field questions. VP Keane spoke about his leadership training with Bayer and Wheat
Industry Winter Conference.