Fallon County

Fallon County lies in southeast Montana, with North and South Dakota bordering to the east and a population of approximately 3,000. About 1,800 and 200 people reside in the two incorporated towns, Baker and Plevna, respectively. Agriculture is a major part of the local communities, with ranching and dryland farming as the leading industries. Fallon County ranks third in the state in oil and gas production, and these industries are the second largest employers. Seasonally, hunting opportunities bring visitors to the area.

Agriculture and Horticulture Assistance

Fallon County MSU Extension provides many resources to producers for agricultural and horticultural production.

• Nitrate testing and interpretation of forage samples were provided for 88 producers
• Twenty-four forage samples were sent out for commercial analysis. Once producers received results, the agent helped interpret results and provided guidance on best management practices to utilize forages.
• Fallon County MSU Extension certifies Noxious Weed Seed Free Forage for producers.
• Fourteen people contacted MSU Extension about the identification and management of different insects. The Schutter Diagnostic Lab was utilized to provide resources to some clients.
• The office fielded 21 questions on plant identification and diseases and then provided clients with an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
• The Schutter Diagnostic Lab confirmed the identification of Absinthe Wormwood in Fallon County. MSU Extension began providing targeted support for oil and gas companies and producers to aid in the control of Absinthe Wormwood.
• In May, Fallon County MSU Extension, in cooperation with the Fallon County Noxious Weed Board, NRCS, and the Little Beaver Conservation District, offered an Agricultural Drone workshop to demonstrate the use of drones for aerial chemical application.
• In July, MSU Extension offered an ATV/UTV Safety presentation at the Annual Tri-County Weed Tour.

Caption: Agricultural Drone

Credit: Dave Kirschten, Fallon County MSU Extension Agent

4-H Promotion for Program Growth

MSU Extension Fallon County staff promoted leadership skills in the 4-H program. The County Ambassador program saw a noteworthy increase in participation, and the participating ambassadors experienced success at the county and state levels. Each member of the team brought personal attributes to the team and played a vital role in their success. The team provided a learning opportunity at each local 4-H club meeting, teaching icebreaker games and discussing the networking and skill-building opportunities available for members who attend state events.

A new event this year was a “Show’em Jackpot,” which the ambassadors hosted to provide members an opportunity to practice showmanship skills prior to the county fair. Kodie Olsen, Fallon County 4-H Program Coordinator, was selected to guide the Montana State Ambassadors team as their Advisor. 

Caption: Fallon County 4-H Ambassador team at the Fallon County Fair.

Credit: Fallon County MSU Extension

Homemakers and Community Focus

MSU Extension attended the Willard Homemakers Council Meeting and provided resources and information to guide them through organizational changes. Pressure canner gauge testing was offered to county residents. MSU Extension Fallon County began publishing a weekly social media series to the Facebook page titled “MontGuide Mondays.” These weekly posts improve outreach to a broader audience and encourage usage of Montana State University Extension webpages. Fallon County MSU Extension detailed the local services available at the Fallon County Fair to help residents reach out about needs in the community.

Caption: A prize at the Fallon County Extension display booth during the Fallon County Fair.

Credit: Dave Kirschten, Fallon County MSU Extension Agent

Contact

10 W. Fallon
Baker, MT 59313
406-778-7110
https://www.montana.edu/extension/falloncarter/