Ohio State University Extension Engaging Women involved in the Agricultural Industry

1. Ohio State University Extension Engaging Women involved in the Agricultural Industry Herringshaw, D., Extension Educator, Ohio State University, Wood County Woodruff, J.N., Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Erie County A New Opportunity Growing to Bring Farm Women Together Women in Agriculture Conference • The 2009 Northwest Ohio Women In Ag conference was attended by 140 women including 29 FFA members representing three chapters. Participants represented 46,721.05 acres of farm land in 18 counties and 3 states. • 94% of respondents agreed that the program will increase farm family communications • 93% agreed that the knowledge they gained at the program will be applied to their farm operation • 99% of the participants agreed knowledge gained during the conference will be applied to their personal life. • Those attending more than one year of Women In Agriculture programs were asked if they made any changes to the farm operation based on knowledge gained at past conferences. • 78% responded they had made changes. “I thought I knew a lot about the farm already, but I have gained so much more by coming to this class.” –Annie’s Project Participant Farm Business Transition Class. Annie’s Project Impacts • From 2007 – 2010: • 13 workshops were conducted • 282 women have participated Results from 6 month follow-up survey after 2008 classes: • 88% became involved with goal setting for the farm. • 67% have become more involved in the farm decision making process. • 50% adopted at least one new risk management practice. • 42% have remained in contact. “We women farmers need to speak up and make sure we are heard and that our opinions count, at home, in meetings, at the parts store, by the laborers we hire, and the farmers who lease our land or provide contracted services. –Highland County Study Participant “I believe I can be more help because of what I learned in these classes. I hope to make an impact from now on.” –Annie’s Project Participant Ohio State University Extension embraces human diversity and is committed to ensuring that all research and related educational programs are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or veteran status. This statement is in accordance with United States Civil Rights Laws and the USDA. Keith L. Smith, Ph.D., Associate Vice President for Agricultural Administration and Director, Ohio State University Extension TDD No.  800-589-8292  (Ohio only) or  614-292-1868 .