In the vast, rugged landscapes of the American West, a quiet revolution is underway. Female ranchers are transforming the ranching industry, bringing a new era of sustainability and inclusivity. In 2012, women owned 14 percent of the nation's farms, a number set to rise as ownership shifts to a new generation. These trailblazing women are at the forefront of sustainable ranching, prioritizing humane treatment of animals and ecological practices such as grass-fed cattle rearing. Far from simply upholding tradition, they are redefining what it means to be a rancher, paving the way for a future where environmental stewardship and gender equality go hand in hand.
In the untamed expanses of the American West, long before Hollywood icons like John Wayne and Gary Cooper, women played a vital role in ranching. Indigenous tribes such as the Navajo and Cheyenne, as well as Spanish-Mexican rancheras, were the true stewards of the land, taming vast fields, navigating rugged terrain alongside their loyal dogs, and nurturing livestock. However, with the arrival of European settlers and their preconceived notions of gender roles, women's contributions were often overshadowed. Yet, as the ranching industry evolves with advancements in technology and mechanization, the archetype of the cowboy shifts from brute strength to encompass skills in business, animal husbandry, and environmental stewardship. Today, female ranchers are reclaiming their historic connection to the land, embodying strength, resilience, and a deep reverence for the natural world.
Trailblazing Women: Shaping the Ranching Landscape
With a generational shift in career choices, more women are stepping into the forefront of ranching. In 2012, 14 percent of the nation's farms were owned by women, a number expected to rise as ownership changes hands. Embracing the spirit of adventure and independence, female ranchers are carving out a new narrative. They lead the charge in sustainable ranching, prioritizing humane treatment and ecological practices like grass-fed cattle rearing. These trailblazing women are not just upholding tradition; they're redefining the ranching landscape for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
As women reclaim their roles in land stewardship, there's a parallel surge of innovative programs supporting those already in or aspiring to ranching. Notable among these is the New Cowgirl Camp, pioneered by Beth Robinette of Lazy R Ranch in Cheney, Washington. This intensive five-day course provides comprehensive training in essential skills such as animal husbandry, ranch management, financial planning, ecological monitoring, and regenerative grazing. Rejecting stereotypical depictions, Robinette's program offers a "rhinestone-free zone," emphasizing practical knowledge and empowerment for women in the ranching community.
Empowering Women, Nurturing the Land: Women in Ranching
Established in 2019 with support from The Western Landowners Alliance, Women in Ranching has blossomed into its own nonprofit, providing a vital community and support network for women in agriculture. Serving as a beacon for those connected to the land, it fosters connection, education, and growth opportunities.
Acknowledging historical inequities, Women in Ranching strives to create an inclusive environment where women can flourish as leaders and stewards of the land. With a focus on diversity, equity, and belonging, it empowers women to step into their leadership roles, fostering better land stewardship and resilient rural communities for a brighter future.
Bridging the Gap: Advancing Gender Equity in Agriculture
Despite increasing female representation in U.S. agriculture, significant disparities persist in access to resources and networks, particularly among marginalized groups, as highlighted by recent AFT research. Internalized sexism remains a core barrier, hindering the success of women-led farms. Caitlin Joseph of AFT Women for the Land stresses the urgent need to address these challenges, especially with vast agricultural land set to change ownership. The report underscores the implications for food production, farm sustainability, and climate resilience, emphasizing the imperative of ensuring equitable opportunities for all in agriculture.
The disparity between women-led farms and their male counterparts is stark, with women's farms earning significantly less, facing challenges in land tenure, and receiving less government support. For every $1 of profit from a women-run farm, a man earns about $2.50 when accounting for landholdings and assets. Additionally, women in agriculture are at a higher risk of experiencing violence and discrimination. Ebonie Alexander from the Black Family Land Trust emphasizes the historical role of women in agriculture and the need to reclaim and protect that legacy. To support women in farming, it's crucial to address their concrete needs directly and empower them as vital contributors to rural communities and agriculture's integrity.
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