Missouri Headwaters Region Report For Montana Farmers Union Magazine
Author: Samantha Ferrat, Montana Farmers Union District representative
Missouri Headwaters Region Report for Montana Farmers Union Magazine
Samantha Ferrat
Montana Farmers Union District Representative
Action needs to be taken. There are many obstacles and issues affecting farmers and ranchers, but there is one that has really been keeping me up at night trying to formulate a solution. Production ag lands are in jeopardy — in Montana and across the nation. The population growth in my region is happening so quickly. Farmers and ranchers are showing great concern as they feel a threat from people selling out around them and the newcomers having little understanding about our agricultural way of life.
I have been part of several conversations and presentations about conservation easements. These have been well attended and tough questions have been raised. There are several types of conservation easements, one of them being funded through a private land trust, NRCS, and the Farm Bill. I have concerns about any conservation easement. I worry about the funds falling through if a new Farm Bill is not passed. I wonder if these easements can be overturned by a presidential decree in future administrations. At the same time, I also believe that conservation easements could be an answer for some families. However, when negotiating the terms of the easement, families must think ahead to what the future farm could look like. Then be mindful of not making restrictions within the terms that could severely limit what future generations can do with the ag production lands.
Are there other ways we can work to preserve ag lands now and for future generations? I believe education and communication are vital and impactful ways anyone can make a difference. As agriculturists, we need to share our way of life and the importance of responsible, sustainable agriculture to our communities and beyond. This can be accomplished via agritourism, social media, one-on-one conversations, and increased involvement in MFU programs, just to name a few ways.
Where do you see yourself in a solution for preserving ag lands?
Reprinted by permission from Montana Farmers Union Spring Quarter Magazine
