Judith Basin County

Judith Basin County lies at the heart of central Montana, a region defined by sweeping plains, fertile valleys, and the surrounding Highwood, Big Snowy, and Little Belt Mountain ranges. With a population of just over 2,100, the county offers a strong sense of community rooted in both tradition and innovation. Its principal towns, Stanford, the county seat, along with Hobson and Geyser, serve as gathering places and as centers of support for the families and businesses that make up this vibrant region.

Agriculture is the backbone of Judith Basin County, where generations of farmers and ranchers have built a way of life centered on stewardship of the land. Wheat and barley fields dominate the landscape, while cattle ranching continues to play a vital role in the local economy. The county’s agricultural producers are known for their dedication to sustainable practices, ensuring the soil, water, and natural resources remain productive for the generations who will follow.

But Judith Basin County is more than its fields and ranches, it is a place where neighbors greet each other by name, where schools and community events bring people together, and where a strong sense of pride in heritage shapes the future. Balancing its rich history with forward-looking innovation, Judith Basin County stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and resourcefulness of rural Montana.

Contact

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

Estate Planning for Every Generation

In February 2025, Judith Basin County MSU Extension hosted Marsha Goetting, MSU Professor and Extension Family Economics Specialist, for two estate planning workshops in Stanford and Hobson. Goetting guided participants through important questions such as: Do you know who will receive your property if you pass away without an estate plan? Do you understand how the title on your real and personal property impacts inheritance? Do you know strategies to avoid probate of your estate?

Over 30 community members attended the sessions, gaining practical tools and resources to begin conversations with their families and make informed decisions about the future. Participants commented that the workshops provided clarity on a complex topic and motivated them to take steps toward creating or updating their own estate plans. By offering these educational opportunities locally, MSU Extension helped residents reduce uncertainty, protect assets, and plan ahead with confidence.

Caption: Marsha Goetting, MSU Professor and Extension Family Economics Specialist presenting about "How to Avoid Probate."

Credit: Sidney Stratton, MSU Extension

Battling the Eastern Heath Snail

In mid-July 2025, the Judith Basin, Cascade, and Fergus Conservation Districts partnered with Judith Basin MSU Extension, the Central and Eastern Montana Invasive Species Team (CEMIST), Montana Invasive Species Council (MISC), and the Montana Department of Agriculture to host a workshop on the growing population of the invasive Eastern Heath Snail (EHS) in Central Montana.

The full-day event brought together 27 community members and industry professionals to learn about EHS identification, why the species has become established in the region, and strategies for monitoring and managing populations. Attendees even had the chance to observe Eastern Heath Snails firsthand, discovering hundreds in the grassy areas surrounding the Raynesford Community Center where the workshop was held. Presenters also provided updates on recent survey results and research, including the discovery of additional populations in Fergus and Cascade counties since the initial Judith Basin detections in 2022.

Participants gained a clearer understanding of the risks EHS poses to agriculture, including reduced crop yields, product contamination, and potential impacts on marketability, and left with practical steps for prevention and management. By continuing to raise awareness and build collaboration across counties, agencies, and landowners, these efforts are helping to slow the spread of EHS and protect the long-term health of Montana’s agricultural economy.

Caption: Participants examine Eastern Heath Snails found near the Raynesford Community Center.

Credit: Sidney Stratton, MSU Extension

A Year of Change at the JB County Fair

The 2025 Judith Basin County Fair brought several exciting changes designed to enhance the experience for 4-H members, families, and the broader community. This year, the fair was moved up one week, from early August to the last week of July, and the overall schedule was adjusted to create a smoother, more enjoyable event.

Highlights of the changes included moving the livestock sale from Saturday afternoon to Friday evening, which drew a strong turnout of buyers and community members. A new Buyer Appreciation Dinner accompanied the sale, providing an opportunity to thank supporters and foster stronger connections between producers and the community. The fair was also shortened by one full day, giving families and youth a more relaxed pace while still enjoying their favorite traditions.

Another exciting addition was the first-ever Adult Round Robin Competition, which allowed community members, parents or volunteers to test their showmanship skills in a fun and engaging way. With approximately 111 4-H members participating in market and breeding projects or indoor exhibits, the changes were well received and helped create a positive, family-friendly atmosphere. Overall, the 2025 Judith Basin County Fair balanced tradition with fresh ideas, making for a rewarding week for youth and the community alike.

Caption: Participants in the first-ever adult round robin competition at the Judith Basin County Fair.

Credit: Abby McKay, Fair Photographer