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 also bring visitors to the area.

Contact

10 West Fallon Ave.
Baker, MT 59313
406-778-7110
https://www.montana.edu/fallon/index.html

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 76 producers. Thirty-three forage samples were sent 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.
Nine 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 16 questions on plant identification and diseases and then provided clients with an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

MSU Extension provided targeted support for oil and gas companies and producers to aid in the control of Absinth Wormwood. In July, MSU Extension offered an Absinth Wormwood and Poison Hemlock presentation at the Annual Tri-County Weed Tour.

MSU Extension hosted a Vertebrate Pest workshop to provide best management practices for pocket gopher, prairie dog, and coyote control.

Caption: Coyote Trap Setting Demonstration

Credit: Dave Kirschten, Fallon County MSU Extension Agent

4-H Focused

MSU Extension staff provided opportunities for leadership growth in the 4-H program. 85 members and 31 volunteers were enrolled in 9 clubs. The County Ambassadors presented the second annual "Show 'Em" Jackpot livestock showmanship show to demonstrate and practice skills to members from multiple counties.

Along with neighboring counties, MSU Extension staff conducted the annual 4-H Camp and 4-H Oreo trips for youth ages 8 - 11 and 12 - 14, respectively. These activities provided opportunities to approximately 150 members. County Ambassadors presented the 5th Annual "I Pledge MT Heart to Better Living" Color Run for active and prospective 4-H members.

Caption: Participants in the annual Color Run.

Credit: Kodie Olsen, Fallon County 4-H Program Coordinator

Homemakers and Community Focus

MSU Extension attended Willard Homemakers and Fallon/Carter Counties annual Spring Council meetings to provide support for local Homemakers. MSU Extension coordinated workshops on sewing and mending, easy and nutritious meal preparation, and cooking for the holidays, reaching 38 participants.

MSU Extension presented two sourdough making workshops, reaching 18 adult and youth community members, and presented two seed-starting workshops, reaching 11 adult and youth community members.

Caption: Sourdough Breadmaking Workshop

Credit: Dave Kirschten, Fallon County MSU Extension Agent