by Chris Bieker, outreach and communications coordinator, Washington State FSA
Women producers from throughout Washington state did something this February that they rarely do — they met neighboring women producers at a statewide conference.
In trying to overcome barriers that deter women producers from attending conferences, planners of the Washington Women in Agriculture Conference tried a new and unique format — videoconference. More than 480 women participated in the event that took place simultaneously in 16 locations throughout the state. Past statewide conferences attracted about 140 producers.
Feedback from past conferences and workshops identified travel as being a major barrier for women to participate. Women producers have difficulty leaving farm, family and community commitments for any length of time. This difficulty is compounded by the timing of most conferences and workshops taking place in the winter. Winter works best for farm schedules but Washington roads and mountain passes pose travel challenges and family and community commitments increase with school activities.
The conference brought together the advantages of a statewide event with the advantages of local workshops. Lyn Garling, farmer, integrated pest management specialist and a founder of the Pennsylvania Women’s Agricultural Network, spoke about “Farming as a Woman: My Own Private Reality Show.” Washington women were delighted to learn the Pennsylvania farmer was originally from Goldendale, Wash. She also expanded her farm with an FSA farm ownership loan. Rita Emmet, consultant and author, discussed “Blast Away Procrastination and Get It Done Now.” Participants received autographed copies of her book, “The Procrastinator’s Handbook – Mastering the Art of Doing It Now.”
For many, the best part of the whole conference was meeting other women who farm and ranch in their areas. Some women commented that this was the first time they met some of their neighboring women producers. In many locations, they took the initiative to continue the local networking after the conference. Participants in all locations asked for additional educational and networking opportunities, including farm walks, workshops, webinars and more
Farm Service Agency county offices throughout the state helped promote the conference and made recommendations for local panel speakers. Farm Loan Specialist Tanya Dostal was a member of the planning team and the site facilitator for the Mt. Vernon site, which had the largest attendance with about 80 women. CED Michel Ruud assisted at the Wenatchee site. State Outreach Coordinator Chris Bieker assisted at the Spokane site and helped with overall planning. State Office employees Mitzi Stephens and Kristina Scott put together registration packets and District Directors Brian Miller and Steve Hoag transported materials to two of the event locations.
The group plans to continue providing educational opportunities for women producers and is exploring ways to maintain the networking. The Washington Women in Ag website is www.WomeninAg.wsu.edu.
