The “Beyond the Weather” movement started in 2021 with the help of federal funding from USDA NIFA Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network to the Montana Department of Agriculture. In 2023, Wyoming Department of Agriculture joined the movement as well. When the federal funding ran out, Northern Ag Network took the program under its wing and helped to fundraise additional dollars to continue the momentum.
Montana agricultural workers experience stress due to financial worries, with 72.4% citing loans, debts, and bank pressure as a source of stress.
Montana agricultural workers report a medium level of stress, with an average Perceived Stress Scale score of 18.9, indicating moderate stress that can impact daily life.
Over 60% of Montana agricultural workers are interested in learning stress management techniques, with online classes being a preferred method for accessing mental health resources.
These statistics were obtained from a baseline survey conducted by the Western Regional Agricultural Stress Assistance Program (WRASAP) in Montana, which aimed to better understand the stressors and mental health needs of agricultural workers in the state. Read the Report Here
