Monte T. Hemenover

Monte was born and raised on a cow-calf ranching operation in southwestern Wyoming, north of Cheyenne. Monte says the family ranch was one of the more productive ranches in the area requiring only 40 acres to take care of a cow.

Monte graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in agricultural economics and business. He’s most likely the only person who went to college on football, bowling, and rodeo scholarships.

After graduation, Monte managed the Rafter U Ranch at Hermosa, South Dakota. Rafter U, which was located on the eastern side of the Black Hills, was 52,000 acres with 1,200 cows, 3,000 yearlings, and extensive irrigated hay and grain production.

After managing the ranch for four years, Monte joined Elanco Animal Products where he became cattle products manager and worked extensively with the beef industry.

Following 10 years with Elanco, Monte joined Monsanto in 1983. During his 16-plus years with Monsanto, Monte concentrated on the successful commercialization of Posilac. He successfully interfaced with all facets of the dairy industry to insure acceptance of rBST and other biotechnology derived products.

It was through this interface that Monte gained a tremendous understanding of the dairy industry and the respect of the industry’s leadership. Currently, Monte serves on the executive committee and board of directors of the U.S. Dairy Export Council and U.S. Meat Export Federation.

Just a few months ago, Monte elected to form his own dairy consulting business, named Avenues for Change, which is based in St. Louis. His new business venture has already been termed a huge success by his peers.

Monte’s vision of the U.S. dairy industry’s future is exciting. During the past 12 months he has given more than 90 presentations on the future of the U.S. dairy industry.

He is a champion for change and having the proper attitude. Monte challenges us to take advantage of the opportunities available to everyone who comes in contact with dairy cows.

Monte and Mrs. Hemenover live in St. Louis.