Governor Gianforte Cuts Ribbon on Multi-Use Ag Facility

Celebrates opening of Combined State Laboratories building in Bozeman

Governor's Office

BOZEMAN, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte today joined the Montana Department of Agriculture, the Montana Department of Livestock, and Montana State University (MSU) to celebrate the opening of the new Combined State Laboratories building in Bozeman.

"In Montana, Agriculture is more than just our number one industry, it's a part of our way of life. Across the state, our producers are innovating, utilizing new technologies, and pioneering best practices as an example for the world," Gov. Gianforte said. "It was time our facilities that support them stepped up to the plate. This project has been years in the making, and it's exciting to see it become a reality to strengthen our ability to support Montana's farmers and ranchers."

Gov. Gianforte helping cut the ribbon on the Combined State Laboratories building in Bozeman

The multi-use agricultural facility brings together the Montana Department of Livestock's Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, the Montana Department of Agriculture's Analytical Lab, and the MSU Wool Lab. The ribbon cutting marks the completion of a long-planned facility designed to support Montana agricultural producers through research, education, outreach, testing, and diagnostic services.

The Veterinary Diagnostic Lab supports veterinarians, livestock producers, wildlife managers, and government agencies in identifying and monitoring animal diseases. The American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians-accredited laboratory also supports public health through testing for zoonotic diseases and by helping ensure the safety of animal products such as milk and eggs.

The Analytical Lab provides testing and analytical services to analyze feed, fertilizer, pesticides, groundwater, and other samples used by producers, researchers, and regulatory programs across the state.

The Montana Agricultural Experiment Station Wool Lab provides wool testing and research services for sheep producers throughout Montana and the region. The laboratory evaluates wool quality and sheep genetics to help producers improve flock performance, maximize wool value, and remain competitive in the marketplace.

The Combined State Laboratory represents a major investment in Montana agriculture and animal health. Replacing facilities that relied on equipment more than 70 years old, the new laboratory will expand testing capacity, improve efficiency, and provide modern resources to better serve producers and communities across Montana.

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