A new report reveals that climate change poses significant challenges for Montana’s agricultural sector, affecting wheat and cattle production. Prepared by Power Consulting for Farm Connect Montana, the report highlights future weather shifts that could disrupt traditional farming practices in the state’s rural communities.
Titled “The Economic Impact of Climate Change on Montana Agriculture,” the report predicts more mild springs and autumns, along with rainier winters and excessively hot summers by mid-century. These changes could severely impact Montana’s agricultural economy unless adaptive measures are implemented.
Experts project a 6-degree Fahrenheit rise in average temperatures by 2050, making moisture patterns less predictable. Montana’s northwestern areas may experience 11 extra days above 90 degrees, while the rest of the state could see 33 additional scorching days.
Implications extend beyond agriculture, affecting tourism with 33 fewer ski days expected annually. The report predicts more rainfall, yet this will not follow the traditional snowpack pattern, leading to a 50% increase in heavy rainfall events by mid-century.
For farmers and ranchers, this could mean increased plant stress during hotter, drier summers and a decline in available water resources for cattle due to higher evaporation rates. Invasive plants could thrive, reducing forage quality and increasing operational costs.
A 20% decline in rangeland cattle is anticipated, with significant job and revenue losses mirroring trends seen in states like New Mexico. Montana’s wheat production is also shifting, with winter wheat yields rising temporarily, but long-term global declines expected.
Montana farmers are already adapting by rotating crops and integrating nitrogen-fixing pulse crops like lentils and chickpeas. These changes aim to mitigate the anticipated 20% loss in grain crops and the resulting economic impacts.
Farm Connect Montana commissioned the report to understand and prepare for climatic effects on agriculture. Executive Director Bonnie Buckingham highlighted the importance of adapting through innovative practices and supporting local agricultural communities through legislative measures like the Farm Bill.
Despite political tensions surrounding climate change, the need for adaptation is widely acknowledged among farmers and ranchers, with state-level support expected given agriculture’s economic significance to rural communities.
—
Read More Montana News
