Agriculture & Farms

LIFELINE FARMS

With a herd of around 400 Brown Swiss Cows, sheep, lambs, pigs and an array of vegetables, herbs and flowers, Lifeline Farms is an agricultural wonder. Selling their own organic beef, pork, cheese and milk, makes them special to our valley. For a tour and directions call (406) 642-3873 or visit www.lifelinefarm.com. This is a stop you do not want to miss while you are here in the Bitterroot Valley.

HISTORICAL FEED MILL

Lakeland Feed & Supply has been in this same location since the 1930’s. This tour is great for kids as well as adults to learn how traditional methods are combined with the latest scientific knowledge. Visitors are welcome to tour this facility. Call (406) 363-2334 to schedule a tour or visit www.lakelandfeeds.com.

ALPACA TOUR

Looking for something special - learn about one of the newest livestock industries in the Bitterroot. These animals furnish a wonderful, warm, lightweight, hypoallergenic fiber, that is turned into socks, garments and accessories of all kinds. For more information on these wonderful animals call Montana Suri Alpaca Farm at (406) 381-0409 or Rocking L Alpacas at (406) 642-3085.

EMU RANCHES

Wild Rose Emu is one of two Emu Ranches in Montana. Clover Quinn is a remarkable woman as she has approximately 120 emus she takes care of. Emus are a prehistoric bird originating in Australia, they have no wing muscles but can run 35-40 miles per hour for short distances. 95% of the emu is a usable bird ... their meat, oil for your skin, supple leather, their feathers and their dark green eggs. Ranch is located at 284 Rose Lane in Hamilton and Clover welcomes visitors. Call (406) 363-1710 or visit www.wildroseemu.com.

HORSE RANCHES IN THE VALLEY

Horses have always been a part of Montana, and the Bitterroot is blessed to have several equine organizations. Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen, Western Montana Equine Rescue & Rehabilitation and Equestrian Club at Dunrovin Ranch are among a few of them.

WESTERN RESEARCH CENTER

MSU’s Western Research Center is located at 580 Quast Lane NE of Corvallis. The center addresses agricultural needs for its area of the state. To find out more information call (406) 961-3025 or visit www.ag.montana.edu/warc. LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

When spring comes to the valley, Farmers Markets from Darby to Florence begin their weekend markets. From locally grown produce, plants, flowers, baked goods and handcrafted items, these markets are packed every weekend with people wanting to take home something special from the Bitterroot Farmers Markets.

FARM STANDS OR ORCHARDS

Several farm stands and orchards in the valley are open seven days a week during the growing season. You will find the best of the Bitterroot right here in our valley. For more information on our local food producers contact the Chamber.

AGRI-TOURISM

ABC acres has unveiled a new and exciting Agritourism service geared towards Farm Stay Vacations, complete with educational and participatory components for guests to learn about our ongoing regenerative agriculture systems, and how that directly benefits the local and global community. Call (406) 210-5710 or www.abcacres.com.