Gov. Gianforte Meets with Young Ag Leaders, Recognizes Volunteer Firefighters

• June 08 2022

COLUMBUS, Mont. – Continuing his 56 County Tour today, Governor Greg Gianforte met with young leaders in agriculture in Harlowton and recognized members of Montana’s volunteer firefighting workforce in Lavina.

“Agriculture is a huge part of our way of life here in Montana. It’s a proud tradition, and it’s one that will be passed on to future generations by some of the young Montanans I met today,” Gov. Gianforte said.

Gov. Gianforte chats with three young Montanans in Wheatland County

At Chief Joseph Park in Harlowton, local children showed the governor animals they are raising and plan to show in fairs this summer, including sheep and pigs.

“I like watching my animals grow up, and I just think it’s fun,” one girl told the governor when explaining why she wants to go into agriculture. 

Agriculture is Wheatland County’s primary industry, as well as the number one industry statewide in Montana.

In Golden Valley County, the governor stopped in to the Lavina Volunteer Fire Department to recognize members of Montana’s volunteer firefighting workforce.

“Montana is home to hundreds of volunteer firefighters. These men and women are often the first on the ground for fires or emergencies, protecting lives and property,” Gov. Gianforte said. “I was glad to shake hands with a few of them today.”

Gov. Gianforte hears from firefighters in the Lavina Volunteer Fire Department

Golden Valley Sheriff and County Fire Chief Bob Pallas emphasized the importance of the volunteer firefighting crew to their county and communities.

“The only thing we have here is volunteers. We have ranchers, and other folks that live in the towns that volunteer. Without them, we wouldn’t have a fire department,” Sheriff Pallas said.

Also today, the governor toured Rimrock Flower Farm, a small business in Roundup growing seasonal blooms for weddings and special events, as well as for purchase by local residents.

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