Gordon Stoner, a farmer and agricultural advocate from northeastern Montana, has been named the 2025 Outstanding Agricultural Leader by the Montana State University (MSU) College of Agriculture. The award is MSU’s highest recognition in agriculture and will be presented during the annual Celebrate Ag event, which this year features more than 20 events from November 2 to 8 both on and off campus.
Darrin Boss, associate dean of the college, said, “Gordon has been a wonderful supporter of the College of Agriculture and Montana Agricultural Experiment Station for many years. He is extremely deserving of this recognition. His leadership within the agriculture industry is well-recognized, and we appreciate his long-standing relationships with our researchers, research centers, Extension agents and other agricultural clients.”
Stoner was recognized for his work as an early promoter of pulse crops such as peas, lentils, and chickpeas in Montana. Tim McGreevy, CEO of USA Pulses, stated in support of Stoner’s nomination: “Gordon played a significant role in transforming Montana agriculture into the largest producer of dry peas, lentils and chickpeas in the country. He was a pioneer of pulse production and mentored pulse farmers in the state and across the nation.”
Montana leads all states in pulse crop production according to recent statistics from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In 2025 alone, over 1.7 million acres were planted with pulses statewide.
Stoner operates Stoner Farms in Sheridan County near Outlook. Nominators described him as not only knowledgeable but also supportive to colleagues within Montana’s farming community.
Mary Burrows recalled her experience working with Stoner while she served at MSU before moving to Virginia Tech: “I knew I could always call him for an opinion and advice,” she wrote. “He sought out information not only when problems arose, but also to anticipate future challenges, ensuring that growers were prepared with the most current knowledge available.”
Throughout his career Stoner has held leadership roles with organizations including the Montana Grain Growers Association and National Association of Wheat Growers.
Paul Kanning led Stoner’s nomination for this year’s award: “Gordon Stoner embodies Montana agriculture’s finest qualities: quiet leadership, steadfast commitment and results that last,” Kanning wrote. “Among neighbors and national leaders alike, he’s known for showing up, doing the work and elevating those around him. In a state rich with ag leadership, Gordon stands out because his service and results speak louder than words. He doesn’t just represent Montana agriculture – he has shaped its direction.”
Former U.S. Senator Jon Tester also provided a letter supporting Stoner’s nomination: “Gordon Stoner is the kind of farming leader I respect: steady, practical and rooted in real-world problem-solving,” Tester wrote. “Gordon also quietly invests in others. He doesn’t just show leadership, he builds it in others. He mentored board members, policy advocates and young growers. He’s helped steer Montana agriculture through stormy waters and left us stronger for it.”
Stoner will be honored alongside his family at two events during Celebrate Ag week: at a social gathering on November 7th followed by recognition during MSU Bobcats’ Ag Appreciation football game on November 8th.
A full schedule for Celebrate Ag can be found at ag.montana.edu/celebrateag/.
