Governor Greg Gianforte began his sixth annual 56 County Tour on April 17, meeting with residents in Jefferson, Butte-Silver Bow, Madison, and Beaverhead counties to highlight local manufacturers, small business owners, veterans, and community leaders.
The tour aims to recognize the contributions of Montanans who support their communities and the state’s economy. The governor said the most important part of his job is “traveling the Treasure State to hear directly from Montanans and celebrate the people, businesses, and communities that make our state strong.” He added that it is a privilege to recognize those “who embody our values and keep our economy moving forward.”
In Jefferson County, Gianforte visited Marks-Miller Post and Pole—a family-owned manufacturer using Montana-sourced lodgepole pine for fence posts and specialty wood products. Marvin Allison, foreman at Marks-Miller Post and Pole said: “We take pride in using Montana wood and turning it into a quality product people can rely on. This work started with a simple need on a family ranch, and today we’re proud to continue that tradition while supporting jobs and serving customers across the region.”
The governor also honored U.S. Marine Corps veteran Corporal Lyndsay Alt in Butte-Silver Bow County with the 2025 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation for her service both in uniform—where she worked alongside federal agencies—and as an active community member supporting veterans locally.
In Madison County’s Twin Bridges area, Gianforte toured R.L. Winston Rod Company with General Manager Andy Wunsch to learn about its nearly century-long history making fly-fishing rods in Montana for national and international markets. Wunsch said: “For nearly a century, Winston has been committed to craftsmanship, innovation, and quality… we’re proud to continue building our rods here while reaching customers around the world.”
Beaverhead County saw Sergeant Montana Mansfield-Reynolds recognized for his Army service—including deployments during Operation Iraqi Freedom—and ongoing work mentoring youth through Dillon’s Montana Youth Challenge Program.
The day concluded at Frecker’s Saddlery in Dillon where skilled trades like saddle-making were highlighted as essential parts of local culture.
Gianforte will continue his county visits tomorrow by traveling through Deer Lodge, Powell, and Granite counties.
