Montana and Neighboring States Rate Poorly for Hobby Farmers

I'm the granddaughter of Montana ranchers who also had a robust garden. I remember stories about my grandparents not even having enough money for groceries and eating solely out of the garden where they grew their own food.

Living with those same grandparents when I was a kid, I ate from the same garden. I'm kicking myself now that I didn't appreciate what I had, remembering how much I despised the flavor of fresh green beans and now I have to buy them at a grocery store.

I'd like to grow my own food but I'll admit my green thumb is more of a flower thumb than a fruit and vegetable one.

But my gardening skills may not be the only thing working against me. A new study shows that Montana (and its neighbors) are not the best if you do want to have a hobby farm.

The Best States for Hobby Farmers: Montana Doesn't Top the List

It seems strange that a state known for agriculture wouldn't be heralded as a place for starting a farm, even if it's not your main source of income. But Lawn Love looked at variables that affect farming like growing days, land availability, and laws around farming among other things to come up with their list of the best states.

Kentucky came in at #1.

Montana, on the other hand, came in at #37, and Wyoming and North Dakota didn't do much better either. Wyoming was #38 and North Dakota was #35.

Why would these three states rank so low? Each one ranked poorly for "Livestock and Agricultural Resources" and according to Lawn Love the main reason Montana and its neighbors didn't do well was "a short growing season."

Would-Be Farmers: Don't Let That Stop You

Yes, Montana's growing season is short, but farmers are innovating ways to grow year-round. Farms like Swanky Roots in Billings use aquaponics greenhouses and are able to grow produce at any time. Other farmers are using shipping containers.

If you do want to farm in Montana, there are possibilities.