As Montana continues to lead the nation in pulse crop production, the Montana Pulse Crop Committee is proud to introduce a new series of conversations with those shaping the future of agriculture in Big Sky Country. In this first installment, we sit down with Jillien Streit, Director of the Montana Department of Agriculture, to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and innovations driving Montana’s agricultural success story.
A native of Chester, Montana, Jillien Streit is deeply rooted in agriculture. Together with her husband, she operates a fifth-generation family farm where they rotate up to 18 different crops and recently added livestock to their operation. Before joining the department, Jillien co-founded Stricks Ag, a grain merchandising company that went public in 2024, and served as financial controller for Flat Acres Farm. Her hands-on experience gives her a unique perspective as she leads Montana’s Department of Agriculture, advocating for farmers, strengthening rural communities, and championing the pulse crop industry at home and abroad.
Q: Montana is the leading pulse-producing state in the U.S. What do you see as the biggest opportunities for Montana’s pulse growers in the next five years?
“Increased ROI with rotational cropping practices is one of the biggest opportunities that traditional wheat and barley growers have with pulse crops. When added to a rotation, pulse crops help both agronomically and financially. The diversification of income and risk improves financing and cash flow. Rotational cropping, compared to 50/50 chem fallow, can have a positive impact on farmers’ income and soil health.”
Q: How do you see domestic demand for pulse crops evolving, and where do you believe Montana has the greatest potential to lead in developing value-added pulse products?
“Domestic food companies will continue adding protein-packed foods to store shelves and finding ways to serve customers with dietary restrictions. Gluten-free products are not just a trend—they’ve earned a permanent place in grocery aisles. Montana pulse crops will continue to play an essential role in this space. As consumers grow more concerned about production practices, our state has a natural advantage because our climate allows us to avoid some of the methods that concern buyers elsewhere. This creates an opportunity for premium markets, and many Montana growers are already pursuing that advantage.”
Q: With so much attention on farm succession and rural communities, what role do you think pulse production can play in keeping family farms thriving in Montana?
“Rising input prices and soil health are two major concerns for Montana farms. Adding pulses to crop rotations can help address both. When a family farm struggles, it often needs to embrace change. Succession is the perfect time to implement new practices. While change isn’t easy, younger producers tend to be more willing to experiment. That’s why I always encourage transitioning decision-making to the younger generation sooner rather than later.”
Q: Montana’s ag industry is diverse—wheat, cattle, barley, sugar beets, and more. How do you balance resources and priorities while still ensuring pulse crops get the support they need?
“Supporting Montana farmers and ranchers means supporting all aspects. The two main branches of the department of agriculture are the Agricultural Development Division (ADD) and the Agricultural Sciences Division (ASD).
The Montana Pulse Crop Committee is under ADD. The Montana Department of Agriculture has a statutory role with that committee and provides services like accounting, check-off collection, and assistance with meetings and public notices.
ADD also has a program called HOLA Montana. Funding for this program comes from sources like the Montana Pulse Crop Committee and the Specialty Crop Block Grant (a federal grant that is administered by the Department of Agriculture). With this program we are targeting Latin American pulse buyers through ad campaigns in their countries, outbound missions to their countries, and inbound missions to Montana. Connecting our businesses and growers to their businesses on a personal level helps to fortify long-lasting relationships with countries that are becoming more affluent and have increased demand for pulse products. HOLA Montana only represents Montana in these marketplaces, pointing out distinguishing qualities that help drive demand and higher prices.
Furthermore, ADD is the branch that the State Grain Lab sits under. The Grain Lab provides all the grading services in the state for pulse crops.
The ASD is our regulatory division. In this division we ensure that Montana State laws are being adhered to. We stand by the importance of education while regulating to ensure that our growers, industry, and consumers understand the law and the importance of compliance. ASD has the Commodity Services Bureau, the Analytical Lab, the Agricultural Services Bureau, and ASD Licensing and Registration Unit. ASD provides critical regulatory efforts daily that support all forms of agriculture, from registering new crop protection and fertilizer products to auditing commodity dealers and warehouses to ensure they are financially capable of performing for our growers and industry. ASD also provides the needed phytosanitary certificates for export markets. These services are provided to and for all commodities and are an integral part of the agricultural system in Montana.”
Q: Beyond agriculture, Montana is known for its landscapes and culture. When you get time away from the office, what’s your favorite way to experience Montana?
“I love getting outside and enjoying our lakes, rivers, mountains, and sky. My family is very active and enjoys downhill skiing at our many ski resorts. We compete in races all over the state like the Snow Joke and Governor’s Cup. In the summer, when we get a little down time between farm work, you bet you will find us out on our surf boat on Tiber Dam.”
Jillien Streit’s leadership reflects a rare blend of practical farming experience and forward-thinking vision. Her commitment to strengthening Montana’s agricultural foundation—while championing the growth of pulse crops and value-added innovation—has positioned her as a powerful advocate for producers across the state. For Montana’s pulse growers, her work ensures the next generation of family farms will continue to thrive under Big Sky Country’s expansive horizons.
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