Jane Kile’s Legacy

Jane Kile (1954-2010) was a pioneer in Montana’s organic farming and community-supported agriculture movements. An early AERO (now Abundant Montana) member and farmer out of Dixon, MT, Jane believed that conserving wildlands, supporting sustainable forestry, farming, and ranching operations, and creating stable, self-sufficient rural communities were all important parts of the solution. A respected teacher, conservationist, and community activist, she advocated for the sanctity of all life on earth and appreciated kindred spirits who rolled up their sleeves and participated in finding solutions.

This annual scholarship was created through a generous endowment by AERO Legacy Member Russ Salisbury in honor of the good works of his long-time friend, Jane Kile.

Funding through the Jane Kile Memorial Scholarship is awarded for projects that seek to be part of the solution for a more sustainable Montana and that embody the spirit, innovation, conservation, and community-focused nature of Jane Kile’s own work. We recognize this is a broad invitation and are open to your interpretations. To help you get started, here are a handful of examples that would be appropriate:

• On-farm projects to increase energy efficiency, sustainable productivity, or land health (i.e. construction of renewable charging station to help power agricultural operations or facilities; season extension using hoop houses or greenhouses, etc.)
• Investments in sustainable farming knowledge and continuing education (workshop or conference attendance, books, classes, other materials)
• Investments in agritourism offerings
• Projects aimed at building soil health (i.e. cover crops, rotational grazing plans, etc.)
• Hosting an intern at your farm or ranch
• Purchases of equipment or supplies for shared use within a community or between multiple agricultural operations
• Establishing, growing, or promoting a community local foods market
• Bringing in a speaker to present to your community