Women in Ag Monthly Meet-Ups- London, OH

What do you imagine when you think of a farmer? Outfits and age may vary but undoubtedly most of us imagine a male. But did you know that in Ohio, 34% of farmers are female? That is up from 30% in 2012.

If we look back at the 2012 census, only 12% (8,702) of women reported being principal operators whereas in 2017 26% (26,569) reported being principal operators. That is a 205% increase in female principal operators from 2012 to 2017! Women have played important roles in agriculture since humans began cultivating the earth. These statistics reflect that role being recognized, accepted, and even celebrated more today than ever before.

As a female agriculture educator, I have a passion for helping women thrive in their roles on the farm. Through Women in Ag Monthly Meet-Ups, I believe female farmers and those serving the ag sector can learn not only from our guest speakers but also from each other through sharing of ideas.

We will meet the 4th Tuesday of each month beginning January 24, 2023 at 5:30 pm and hear from a variety of speakers after a time of fellowship over a good meal.

Upcoming topics and dates:

Jan 24: Ukraine Agriculture and Economic Implications, Dr. Allan Lines, Professor Emeritus, Agricultural, Environmental and Development Economics

Feb 28: Agroecosystem Dialog, Dr. Aaron Wilson, State Climatologist, Ag Weather and Climate Field Specialist and Jason Cervenec, Education and Outreach Director, Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center

Join in a discussion on climate change impacts and agricultural resilience. Bring your lived experiences and share with others as we collectively explore potential actions that may help our community adapt to changing weather conditions.

Mar 28: How to do On-Farm Research, Dr. Elizabeth Hawkins, Agronomic Systems Field Specialist

Cost to attend is $15 to cover the meal and other expense. Current meeting location is the Gwynne Conservation Area Cabin, 690 Arbuckle Rd, London. Social hour and dinner will begin at 5:30 with the guest presentation starting at 6:30. Please RSVP at go.osu.edu/madisonwia.

To view the statistics mentioned in this article, visit nass.usda.gov/agcensus.

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