Montana Agriculture — Crops, Prices, Markets

U.S. agriculture is dominated by a handful of high-value commodities — corn, soybeans, beef cattle, milk, wheat, hogs, cotton, broiler chickens, corn for silage, and hay — but each state has its own profile. California leads in value, with Iowa, Texas, Nebraska, and Minnesota completing the top 5. Specialty crops (fruits, vegetables, nuts, floriculture) are concentrated in CA, WA, FL, MI, and the Great Lakes states.

• Track futures prices on corn, soybeans, milk, and wheat — most U.S. field crops follow CME benchmarks.
• For producers: USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) federal crop insurance is essential — sign-up windows close 30–60 days before planting.
• For local food trends: USDA Local Food Compass and your state Extension service have buyer/grower listings.