Montana Farmers to Benefit from New USDA Relief Program

Jul 14, 2025
By Farms.com

MGGA Supports New USDA Disaster Funding for Farmers' Recovery

The Montana Grain Growers Association (MGGA) welcomes the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) new Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, launching July 10. The program provides $16 billion in aid to help farmers across the country recover from disasters, including drought and extreme weather.

This announcement comes as Montana farmers continue to face severe challenges, especially after five years of drought. The program is designed to assist those who have experienced major crop and revenue losses. The MGGA has been a strong voice in urging federal support for rural communities and producers, and this relief package reflects years of advocacy.

“This strong commitment to agriculture aligns with Montana Grain Growers advocacy efforts over the years,” said MGGA President Lyle Lohr. “I want to extend my gratitude to those in Washington, D.C., who have been listening to the needs of farmers.”

The new USDA funding will support recovery by helping farmers cover disaster-related expenses and stabilize their operations. Farmers in Montana and elsewhere can begin applying for assistance immediately.

MGGA leaders are encouraging local producers to follow the updates and instructions from USDA offices on how to apply. They also urge farmers to stay connected through MGGA’s social media platforms, where full statements and guidance will be shared.

This effort marks a major step forward for American agriculture, especially in areas where farming is the backbone of the economy. With continued support and clear policies, rural communities can remain strong through tough times.

The Montana Grain Growers Association remains dedicated to helping producers not only survive but thrive in the face of climate, economic, and market challenges.

Video: Alberta Honey: A Day at Molenkamp Honey Farms

When was the last time you read the label on your honey?

We spent a day at Molenkamp Honey Farms with Michael Molenkamp, who has been keeping bees for 17 seasons and runs three to four thousand hives. In mid-September, he was finishing treatments and getting his bees ready for winter, and he walked us through how Alberta honey gets made.

Alberta has just 150 commercial beekeepers running 300,000 colonies, and together they produce 40% of Canada’s honey. Long summer days and golden canola fields give Alberta honey a light flavour that’s hard to match anywhere else.

Molenkamp calls Alberta beekeepers some of the most resilient farmers he knows. There’s plenty of Alberta honey to go around, but a lot on our shelves isn’t from here, so his ask is simple. Give the label a second look and choose honey made by Alberta beekeepers, or buy straight from a beekeeper near you.