Montana's Agriculture Remains Top Industry

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Agriculture has been a driving force in Montana's economy since the 1800s, and it remains the state's top industry today. One out of every six Montana workers is employed in an agriculture-related field, with cattle, wheat, and other crops like lentils, honey, and oilseeds accounting for the majority of the state's agricultural output and exports.

Why it matters

Montana's agricultural dominance has shaped the state's economy, culture, and infrastructure for generations. The success of the state's farmers and ranchers has attracted global buyers and supported the growth of regional marketing hubs, demonstrating the outsized impact of this industry on Montana's overall prosperity.

The details

Cattle and wheat are Montana's largest agricultural commodities, accounting for three-fourths of the state's agricultural cash receipts. Montana also leads the nation in production of lentils and certified organic wheat, and ranks highly in other crops like spring wheat, durum wheat, barley, flaxseed, and safflower. The state has expanded its agricultural output to include fresh cherries, honey, peas, lentils, and oilseed crops like canola, flaxseed, and safflower.

• Agriculture has been a driving force in Montana's economy since the latter half of the 1800s.
• Today, one out of every six Montana workers is employed in an agriculture-related field.