Garfield County

Jordan, located in Garfield County serves as the county seat, serving approximately 1250 people, and 600 incorporated in the town of Jordan. Having Fort peck and the Missouri River Breaks as the norther boundary, which offers recreationalists a very diverse destination when visiting our county. Cohagen marks the midpoint of the southern landscape on Highway 59, while Sand Springs, greets travelers on the western side of highway 200. Brusett being recognized region that can be accessed only by dirt roads. All these locations add to the uniqueness of Garfield County, and all the opportunities that if offers families. Agriculture is the primary industry, with commercial and registered cattle herds running the range land. Historically this area was a sheep producing community, the sheep numbers have dwindled the past 20 or so years to only having a few thousand head. Dryland barely and wheat are the predominate crops in the area, followed by the annual forages and a scattering of pulse crops. Tourism in the forms of fishing, hunting, boating, and dinosaur digging are available throughout the year. Fort Peck Lake, the Hell Creek formations, and Hell Creek State Park recreational area draws individuals from all over the world. Garfield County Extension uses non- formal educational programs backed by research-based knowledge to teach community members and bring new opportunities to them. Programs including the Winter Ag series, 4H project workshops, other educational classes for the community on a variety of topics that the community finds a need/interest in.

Where the 4-leaf clover begins to bud - 4-H Cloverbuds

In October of 2023, the start of a new 4-H year, we restarted the Cloverbud program. Each month we did different activities to highlight different project areas that 4-H has to offer. At the first meeting in October, we talked about what 4-H is, discussed different projects in 4-H, learned the 4-H pledge and did a fun craft. From there every month following we did an activity around a project area in 4-H. We did; cake decorating, a fall craft, entomology project, pets project, gardening, visual arts and a get ready for fair meeting. At the county fair this year we honored all 11 Cloverbud members right before the 4-H sale, we introduced all the members, talked about the year that we had and what we did. Each Clover bud member then received a little award, and we set off some confetti cannons to honor them and the great 4-H year that we had.

Caption: Garfield County 4-H Cloverbuds members are excited to grow some cabbage plants.

Credit: Teo Sinks

Program Attendance Increase

Garfield County Extension is experiencing a notable rise in attendance at its programs, reflecting a growing interest among community members in agricultural education and resources. Recent workshops and events have drawn larger crowds, showcasing the community's commitment to improving farming practices and enhancing knowledge on various agricultural topics. This increase can be attributed to several factors, including the relevance of the programs offered, such as Winter Ag Series, Beef Nutrition, canning classes, and gardening classes. Additionally, the Extension's efforts to engage with local farmers and residents through targeted outreach and hands-on learning opportunities have resonated well with the community. The Extension team is excited about this surge in participation, viewing it as a testament to the value of their work. They plan to continue expanding program offerings and adapting to the needs of local farmers and residents. By fostering a culture of learning and collaboration, Garfield County Extension aims to strengthen the agricultural community and promote sustainable practices for the future.

Caption: Members of Garfield County learning more about beef nutrition going into calving season and the winter.

Credit: Teo Sinks

Nitrate Testing

Garfield County Extension is now providing nitrate testing services specifically for hay samples, a vital resource for local livestock producers. With the importance of quality forage in livestock health and productivity, understanding nitrate levels in hay is crucial, especially following periods of drought or excessive fertilization. High nitrate concentrations can pose significant risks to livestock, potentially leading to toxicity. To help farmers ensure the safety of their feed, the Extension office is offering convenient testing options, enabling producers to submit hay samples for analysis. This proactive approach helps farmers make informed decisions about their feeding strategies and manage potential risks effectively. In addition to testing, Garfield County Extension is hosting educational workshops to discuss the implications of nitrate levels in hay and best practices for managing forage quality. By equipping local farmers with the knowledge and tools they need, the Extension aims to enhance livestock health and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the community.

Caption: Nitrate Testing Supplies

Credit: Teo Sinks

Contact

352 Leavitt Ave
Jordan, MT 59337
406-557-2770
https://www.montana.edu/extension/garfield