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Those who farm in northeastern Montana – the northern Great Plains – face very cold winters, very hot summers, and very little rain (11-14 inches annually). Some farmers are finding that organic growing methods are providing a better market, reasonable prices, and more net profit than conventional methods. 
For those who are trying to farm in the Palouse region of eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and northwestern Montana, there is only one name for it – Dryland Farming. Annual rainfall levels of 8 to 16 inches mean that farmers have to be good – very good – at moisture management. 
We are on the final leg of our “grain tour” of Washington and Montana where we met farmers and millers growing and processing heritage grains and grain alternatives. Kevin Murphy and Vicki Bradley are just two of the many links in the chain that makes it possible for this region to produce so many unusual – and delicious – cereal grains. 
We headed off on our Montana “drive-about” looking for heritage grains, small grains, and grain alternatives; and we found some of the nicest people raising some of the most interesting crops! 
OK, folks, I had my first combine ride thanks to Casey Bailey! Complete with a pronghorn antelope in close observation! 
Our first stop in Montana was at Amazing Grains, miller and marketer of Montina™ brand Indian rice grass, where we met Grace Lee – “Amazing Grace” – and her husband Brad. 
Folks, here we are on the start of our Montana Drive About. Join us as we visit grain farmers across the state. 
Then one day, in June of 2007, Kevin was checking Craig’s List for bargains and came across this ad: “Fairhaven Organic Flour Mill for sale…” Kevin didn’t know a thing about flour or milling, but he was willing to learn and to work hard. 
Diane Morrison, owner and general manager, offers a specialty product line up of baked goods using only the finest all-natural ingredients and without preservatives. |
 Video: Seed Saving Around the World
Kate Flint, Australian gardener and seed saver, talks about her seed saving passion.
The Growing Revolution is the story of Jubilee Biodynamic Farm in Carnation, Washington.
Pig Mania
Crown S Ranch, Winthrop WA
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GoodFood Hero: Bob Quinn, Montana Grain Farmer
GoodFood World has named Bob Quinn, Kamut International, as a GoodFood Hero in recognition of his work with ancient grains, organic production, and improving the quality of the food we eat. He is now on a quest to develop a successful organic system for the northern Great Plains, working to develop a model for growing small orchards and dry land vegetables in wheat country.
Read more: GoodFood Hero: Bob Quinn, Montana Grain Farmer