4H Worden Riverdale student, Bayley Becker stands with her prized steer, Lamar, which weighed 1381lbs. Also pictured, from left to right, Ethan Heverly (Director of Community Relations) and Holly O’Dell, President and CEO of Montana State Fund (courtesy photo)
Montana State Fund (MSF), Montana’s only not-for-profit workers’ compensation insurance provider, announced its participation in promoting workplace safety through a series of events at the MontanaFair in Billings this year. With Montana historically ranking among the highest in the nation for workplace accidents, MSF dedicated resources this year into focusing to reduce these statistics, particularly within the state’s top industry—agriculture. This year, 4-H was a the angle.
In a press release this week, MSF released the following info. It stated, “Montana State Fund is committed to fostering a culture of safety, particularly in agriculture, and our partnership with 4H and involvement in local events underscores this commitment,” said Holly O’Dell, MSF President and CEO. “We are excited to engage with the community, support local youth, and promote safer workplace practices.”
As MSF insures about 90% of the agricultural industry in Montana which is a notably high-risk industry, with ATVs being a common source of injuries, MSF is investing in programs like 4H and related Ag programs to enhance safety in this critical sector.
2024 marks the debut of the 4H Community Spotlight Program at the Montana Fair. Prior years saw visits to Helena, Kalispell, Shelby, and Sidney. The program aims to instill a culture of safety among young people, before they enter the workforce, by collaborating with local 4H members. MSF purchased a steer at the 4H Livestock Sale and Auction, and plans to donate beef to Billings Family Service, supporting both the local food bank and the community. Additionally, MSF sponsored the rodeo on Friday and Saturday night.
“We are so grateful for this donation,” states Ryan Cremer, Executive Director. “Every day, Monday through Friday, Family Service provides over 10,000 pounds of supplemental food assistance to our neighbors in need. Monthly, thousands of individuals go to bed with full bellies, in stable housing because of our amazing donors. We can continue to ensure this kind of support because of partnerships like this one. Montana State Fund is truly helping to create real, lasting change in our community.”
“It is always great to see when donors are connecting with our local agricultural producers to help bring local beef to our neighbors in need. While families are still struggling with the effects of inflation, continually rising housing costs, and record high grocery expenses, the ability to have nutritious protein available in their diets is more important than ever to stay healthy and productive. It’s even more special when its locally raised Montana beef which always brings tremendous thanks and overwhelming positive feedback from those fortunate enough to receive it,” said Brent Weisgram, Vice President & Chief Operations Officer at Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN).
Over the past decade, Montana has seen a 13% decrease in reported injuries, a positive trend in the right direction. However, continued efforts and community involvement remain crucial to further reducing workplace accidents and enhancing safety for Montana’s workforce. For more information about MSF and its workplace safety tips, please visit safemt.com.
