Montana Department of Agriculture seeking applicants for Montana Oilseed Advisory Committee

The Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) is seeking applications from growers interested in serving on an Oilseed Advisory Committee. The deadline for applications is Tuesday, March 31, 2020.

“Growers from across the state have expressed significant interest in forming an oilseed advisory committee,” said MDA Director Ben Thomas. “Montana ranks second in the nation for canola, safflower, and flaxseed production, so I’m looking forward to forming a committee to advise us on how we can continue to advance oilseed production. Investing in research, marketing and education is a great place to start.”

MDA received a verified petition from 25 Montana growers to create a Montana Oilseed Advisory Committee in 2019. After receiving the petition, MDA held two listening sessions, the first in Great Falls on December 3rd, and the second in Glendive on February 14th. Growers present at those meetings unanimously expressed their support for proceeding with the formation of a committee.

Those interested in serving on the committee can find an application here. Applications can be submitted to MDA:

• Via email at: [email protected]

• Via mail at: Montana Department of Agriculture

Oilseed Advisory Committee

302 N. Roberts

Helena, MT 59601

Following the application deadline, Director Thomas will evaluate the applications and make appointments, officially forming the committee. In addition to advising MDA on research, marketing and education efforts, the committee will be responsible for proposing an assessment and collection method for a Montana oilseed checkoff. The proposed assessment and method of collection will then be submitted to all known Montana oilseed growers for a formal vote.

The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit agr.mt.gov.