Montana State University Vice President for Agriculture and Dean Sreekala Bajwa says pulse crops remain central to Montana’s agricultural future, both on the farm and in the research pipeline. In her interview, Bajwa explained that research conducted through the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station has helped make Montana the nation’s leading pulse-producing state, while strong partnerships among producers, MSU, the Montana Pulse Crop Committee, and the Montana Department of Agriculture continue to move the industry forward.
Bajwa emphasized that pulse crop research today goes far beyond basic production. Ongoing efforts include new variety development, agronomic practices, disease diagnostics and management, precision agriculture, and expanding work in value-added agriculture. She said precision ag tools will be increasingly important as growers work to make more efficient use of limited resources such as water while also managing input costs and supporting soil health. She also pointed to value-added opportunities as a way to increase producer returns, create jobs, and strengthen Montana’s agricultural economy.
Looking ahead, Bajwa sees major opportunity for pulse crops to play an even larger role in Montana’s semi-arid cropping systems. She noted that pulses are a strong fit for recurring drought conditions, help keep soils healthy through nitrogen fixation, and serve as an effective rotational crop for pest management. Continued research, she said, is helping refine management practices that improve both productivity and profitability. Bajwa also stressed the importance of keeping pace with consumer preferences and emerging markets so Montana’s pulse sector remains competitive and resilient.
She also praised Montana producers for their innovation, collaboration, and willingness to engage directly with university research and Extension. That strong land-grant culture, she said, is one of the state’s greatest advantages. Overall, Bajwa’s perspective reinforces the importance of producer-funded research, practical innovation, and market development in keeping Montana pulse crops profitable and relevant for years to come.
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Montana Pulse Crop Committee
