Congratulations! Jay Meyer Receives Honorary American FFA Degree this October

We’re thrilled to recognize our long-time partner, supporter, and treasured Bitterroot neighbor, Jay Meyer, for his receipt of the Honorary American FFA Degree this October. This recognition is reserved for individuals who have dedicated outstanding personal commitment to provide exceptional service on a national level to agriculture, agricultural education, and Future Farmers of America (FFA). The Honorary American FFA Degree is an opportunity to recognize those who have gone beyond valuable daily contributions to make an extraordinary long-term difference in the lives of students, inspiring confidence in a new generation of agriculturists.

The Meyer family commitment to help take care of our water and habitat resources, and to empower the next generation as stewards of our beloved Bitterroot Valley, is exemplary. In 2019 Jay and his wife Colleen partnered with the Water Forum to help reintroduce native riparian vegetation alongside Burnt Fork Creek, which passes through their Stevensville ranching property. And, each year Jay supports the Water Forum’s Earth Stewardship Program by visiting 7th grade classes from Darby to Lone Rock to teach about irrigation, water efficiency, and agricultural stewardship. 

Jay and wife Colleen, live on their family ranch on Burnt Fork Creek, east of Stevensville, where Jay was raised. Jay and his wife Colleen have given much of their time to, have been in FFA and 4-H where their three children were deeply involved. Their three children continue to be leaders in FFA and 4-H. Colleen and Jay also started the 4th Grade Farm Fair in Ravalli County in 1992 which has continued each spring since, for all Valley 4th graders. 

Jay has been a board member of the Montana FFA Foundation since 2009 and more recently has been chair of Ravalli County Right to Farm and Ranch, and he continues on the Western Agriculture Research Advisory Council. 

Please join us in congratulating Jay Meyer, who we in the Bitterroot are so fortunate to have contributing to our community!