Judith Basin County

Judith Basin County is located in central Montana in a fertile basin between the Highwood, Big Snowy, and Little Belt mountains, with a county population of 2,107. The principal communities are Stanford (county seat located about 65 miles east of Great Falls), Hobson and Geyser. Nestled in the heart of Montana, is a vibrant region that embodies the spirit of American agriculture. Known for its expansive plains and rolling hills, the county offers fertile soil and a favorable climate, making it an ideal location for farming and ranching. Agriculture is not just an industry here; it’s a way of life, deeply rooted in the community’s history and culture. The county primarily focuses on wheat and barley production, alongside cattle ranching, which are key contributors to both local and regional economies. Farmers and ranchers in Judith Basin are dedicated to sustainable practices, ensuring the land remains productive for generations to come. Beyond its agricultural significance, Judith Basin County represents a tight-knit community with a strong commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing innovation. 

Judith Basin County 4-H Program Continues to Thrive

The JB County 4-H program allows for youth to learn new skills while having fun within their community by engaging in other activities. In 2023-2024, there were 103 enthusiastic active members and a dedicated team of 10 adult volunteers. In addition to an increase in membership, the 2024 Judith Basin County Fair, held in August, witnessed a remarkable surge in 4-H project participation, marking a standout moment for the event. This year’s fair saw a significant rise in the number and diversity of projects, with participants expanding their focus beyond traditional livestock and agriculture. This upsurge not only highlighted the growing enthusiasm among the county’s youth but also underscored a broader trend of integrating modern skills with traditional 4-H values. This vibrant community not only reflects the program’s enduring appeal but also highlights its critical role in fostering youth development and leadership. With a strong foundation of supportive adults guiding and mentoring the young members, the 4-H program in Judith Basin County is well-positioned to sustain its growth and impact, nurturing the next generation of community leaders and skilled individuals.

Caption: Large animal round robin competitors waiting to hear the results!

Credit: Rebecca Fischer

New Winter Tween 4-H Camp

This winter, the Judith Basin and Fergus County extension offices chose to try something new and had a joint winter 4-H tween camp that was filled with adventure and camaraderie. The weekend kicked off with a visit to the Bear World Rescue Center, where the kids learned vital safety tips about encountering bears in the wild. Upon arriving at the camp location, laughter begun to echo through the snow as they engaged in snowball fights, sledding, and digging into towering snow mounds. The next day brought a visit to the Wolf Discovery Center, where they deepened their understanding of wolves, bears, and otters. Prior to an afternoon snowmobiling with Katie Hatlelid (4-H volunteer) which provided an exhilarating experience, culminating in a scenic ride to Big Springs to observe the fish, the members learned about avalanche safety and how avalanche beacons work by trying to find a hidden beacon that was placed somewhere in the cabin with another beacon that was given to them. The trip fostered a wonderful sense of community, and everyone left with unforgettable memories and excitement for next year's camp. Thank you to everyone who helped make this experience possible!

Caption: Group photo of all the kids that attended the winter tween camp.

Credit: Chris England

Stanford Hosts Montana Range Tour

This summer, Stanford proudly hosted the 2024 Montana Range Tour on June 20, featuring renowned speaker Gabe Brown. Ranchers and agricultural enthusiasts gathered for this enriching educational field day, designed to share innovative grazing practices and sustainable agriculture techniques. Participants had the unique opportunity to tour the ranching operation of Kurt and PJ Myllymacki, recipients of the 2023 Leopold Conservation Award. Their commitment to conservation and innovative land management exemplifies the principles of sustainable ranching. The Montana Range Tour is more than just an event; it’s a chance for ranchers to connect, learn, and implement best practices that promote environmental stewardship and enhance ranch profitability. Attendees left inspired, equipped with practical knowledge and new ideas to apply in their own operations.

Caption: The Stanford Scramblers 4-H members making breakfast for the Montana Range Tour participants.

Credit: Rebecca Fischer

Contact

91 3rd Street North
P.O. Box 427
Stanford, MT 59479
406-566-2277, x104
https://www.montana.edu/extension/judithbasin/