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Rural Development: Committed to future of rural Montana – Rural Worries

2004 was a year of achievement for Montana Rural Development, and President Bush is challenging us to do even more in 2005 – to work toward universal broadband access in rural America, to strengthen distance learning, telemedicine, and critical health care in rural communities, and to encourage homeownership and entrepreneurship. The goals are high, and Rural Development has a mandate to lead.

Fortunately, we don’t have to start from scratch. Montana Rural Development has a record we can be proud of. In 2004 alone, rural communities in Montana gained or saved over 2,339 jobs and enjoyed over $140.5 million in new investment through Rural Development supported projects. Thanks to Rural Development loans or grants, 1,179 Montana families were able to move into new or rehabilitated homes. Rural Development investments in community facilities or water, electric, or telecommunications projects assisted 5,388 households and 538 businesses. Our Business-Cooperative Services Programs helped 666 businesses and funded a transportation study that may potentially assist every farm in Montana.

By Robert Leigland, Acting State Director USDA Rural Development

Full Article: http://www.theprairiestar.com/articles/2005/01/26/ag_news/opinion/opinion01.txt

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Rural worries

By MARTIN J. KIDSTON – IR Staff Writer

Young farmers and ranchers from across the state helped grease the wheels of government Wednesday, meeting with the governor, listening to committee hearings and sharing the concerns of rural Montana with elected officials.

Product branding, the disappearance of small-town Montana and the struggle to compete in a global market were among their concerns.

"I wanted to see for myself what the future holds for young producers," said Matt Wickens, a 28-year-old cattle producer from Winifred. "Living out in Winifred, you get kind of disconnected with what goes on here in Helena, so I came down to learn how the process works."

Over the years, Wickens has watched his town dwindle from a vibrant agricultural hub to a scattered patch of about 150 people.

Full Story: http://helenair.com/articles/2005/01/27/montana/a08012705_03.txt

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