Inside the grain leg, dozens of rectangular buckets are connected to a loop, or belt, made of rubber, pvc, or steel chains. When the grain leg is turned on, the buckets begin scooping grain out of the pit. The buckets work like elevator cars to carry grain to the top of the leg.

In the heart of Montana's Golden Triangle, Chouteau County is the largest wheat producing county in Montana, and consistantly ranks in the top 10 in barley production. The cattle industry ranks second behind cropping in agricultural profitability.

Wheat is the third most produced cereal grain in the world. Hard red winter wheat, the most common form of winter wheat grown in Montana, is used extensively to make breads and rolls. Hard red wheat is also blended with soft white wheats to make the all-purpose baking flour found in most homes. Montana wheat is exported for use around the world, and sold locally.