Montana producers recognized nationally for leadership

Several Montana Farmers Union members were recognized nationally for their leadership on behalf of family farmers and ranchers during National Farmers Union’s Annual Conference held in New Orleans, Louisiana, earlier in March.

April Martin, director/effector of the Wild Rose Center who ranches in Busby, was recognized with the Bruce Miller Award for demonstrating the mission and vision of Farmers Union daily. As a Bruce Miller Award recipient, Martin displays a passion for family farming and rural America, while promoting the grassroots work of Farmers Union, attracting new members, inviting guests to get involved, and building public awareness of Farmers Union.

Martin, an MFU board member and past Farmers Union Enterprises Leadership Program participant, is a firm believer in the power of women and community. She leads programming aimed to inspire and support all on this journey called life. She was raised on her tribal homelands in Southeast Montana, where she now raises fat, happy cows. She also acts as an ambassador of Native culture.

Additional awards received by Montana Farmers Union members were:

Melissa Wacker, a Farmers Union Insurance Agent in Hardin, achieved a Silver Star Membership Award with National Farmers Union for her efforts and enthusiasm in recruiting and renewing Montana Farmers Union members.

The Teton County Farmers Union Local, the Flathead Farmers Union Local, the Western Montana Local, and the Liberty/Toole County Local received Farmers Union Local Leadership Awards for demonstrating outstanding leadership with their communities and providing local connections for producers.

Learn more about Montana Farmers Union’s work to support family farmers and ranchers and Montana’s rural communities at www.montanafarmersunion.com.