Celebrating the International Year of the Woman Farmer

WASHINGTON — The United Nations declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer in order to recognize the efforts of women in agri-food systems across the world.

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture tipped the hat to female farmers at its winter policy conference.

“Women are vital to agriculture worldwide, from production to innovation to leadership,” said NASDA CEO Ted McKinney. “NASDA is committed to amplifying women farmers’ voices and ensuring policies reflect needs and opportunities for all farmers.”

A panel of leaders discussed the importance of women in agriculture at the event.

Highlights

“Seeing is believing and I think when you raise up other women in leadership positions, as farmers, that next generation gets to see them, as well as an opportunity not only to be a farmer, to be involved in agriculture, but also to provide some leadership that their voice matters, that their perspective matters.”

Mary Boote, CEO

Global Farmer Network

“Don’t be afraid to introduce new legislation, whether it’s in the statehouse or whether it’s on Capitol Hill, that would make a difference. That may not seem that easy, but as long as it’s logical and you have people that agree with you, it’s like, wow, we can get that done.”

Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss.

U.S. Senator

“That recognition, to honor and to make real change, lasting change, is not just in one year. It’s not a snapshot. It’s forever changing our policies, it’s changing our attitudes, it’s changing our commitment, it’s changing the way we spend money, how we spend, where we spend, who we recognize, who we honor. This is just the beginning. This is the launch of what I hope is going to be a change so more women will not have to have these conversations — that they will just be recognized for what they contribute.”

Krysta Harden, president and CEO

U.S. Dairy Export Council