The Montana Wheat and Barley Committee (MWBC) has announced the appointment of Jim Bjelland of Conrad, MT, and Logan Anderson of Chester, MT, as its newest board members, bringing experience and fresh perspectives to the governor-appointed board of directors. They will represent districts three and two, respectively.
Bjelland and Anderson have farmed for a combined 57 years. Each member is looking forward to representing Montana grower dollars dedicated to market development and research.
“Being part of this Committee is important work,” said Bjelland. “I’m truly honored to work alongside my fellow directors and the staff here to ensure that growers are able to continue producing the world-class grain that Montana is known for.”
Bjelland has long been involved in wheat production, carrying on a family legacy that spans more than a century. He began farming full-time in 1978. As a dryland producer, he fully understands market variability and stewardship of Montana’s agricultural resources. He and his wife, Christine, raised two sons and now are reaping the benefits of being grandparents.
While Bjelland has longevity in production agriculture, Logan Anderson is on the early side of farming. A fifth-generation wheat and barley producer, he represents the latest age group to devote their life to feeding the world.
“I value the work MWBC does to keep Montana producers competitive,” said Anderson. “I am particularly interested in how technology can advance our farm practices. A.I. will certainly change things and MSU is ramping up precision agriculture which includes A.I. These tools can help encourage young producers.”
Anderson has a background in finance management in the public and private sectors, a plus for MWBC. He has been married for 10 years to his wife, Brittney, and they have two sons.
“Producer leadership is the foundation of the Montana Wheat and Barley Committee,” said Kent Kupfner, executive director of MWBC. “Jim and Logan both bring practical experience, strong local ties, and a clear dedication to Montana agriculture. We look forward to their contributions as board members.”
Bjelland replaces Keven Bradley of Cut Bank who served one term; Anderson replaces Max Cederberg, Turner, who retired after 40-plus years of farming.
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MWBC
