SOUTHERN WOMEN IN AG; ADVANCED CATTLE WORKSHOP
Knight, C.H.1; Butcher, S.R.2; Cheely, T.W.3; Hammond, K.4; Ray, L.5; Sapp, P.6; Tucker, J.J.71Ag and Natural Resources Agent, University of Georgia, Statesboro, GA, 30458
2Ag and Natural Resources Agent, University of Georgia, Newnan, GA, 30263
3Ag and Natural Resources Agent, University of Georgia, Warrenton, GA, 30828
4NW Research Center Superintendent, University of Georgia, Calhoun, GA, 30701
5Ag and Natural Resources Agent, University of Georgia, Madison, GA, 30650
6Ag and Natural Resources Agent, University of Georgia, Louisville, GA, 30434
7Assistant Professor, UGA Animal and Dairy Science, Tifton, GA, 31793
Abstract:
The U.S. Department of Agriculture accounts $536 million worth of economic impact in Georgia to women farmers. Of the 17,779 women that identified as farming operators in Georgia in the U.S. Census for Agriculture, 53% were the spouse of the principle operator. Only 36% of those women identified as the principle farming operator. It is not from lack of skill that women are not more prevalent in the industry – but perhaps lack of confidence. Increasing the confidence of women in agricultural settings by encouraging them to experience basic agricultural techniques/skills in a stress-free, all female environment, will result in their increased involvement in agriculture. According to studies, women tend to learn more effectively with hands-on activities. Therefore, catering to women’s unique learning styles will enhance their experience. These women, like all farmers, need technical advice to help their farming operations be successful. Therefore, the Southern Women in Agriculture (SWAG) Advanced Cattle Workshop was developed to provide women involved in or interested in cattle production, a comfortable learning environment to gain hands-on experience and network with other women involved in the industry. A two-day hands-on training was held April 29-30, 2019 on the UGA-Tifton Campus, Tifton, GA. There was a total of 18 attendees and 3 UGA ANR county agents, not including volunteers and instructors. Each day consisted of three two-hour breakout sessions which allowed all attendees ample time to engage and participate in each of the hands-on activities provided. Sessions included: cattle handling/chute side, truck and trailer driving, tractor and equipment, media training, bovine reproduction, and forages and fencing. Based on the evaluation, comfort level increased by at least 1 score in every station. 100% of respondents said that the workshop met their expectations and they would definitely recommend this workshop to others, and 80% would be interested in future trainings geared towards women involved in agriculture. As a result of this program, 5,882 acres and 1,222 head of cattle will be impacted by the knowledge gained. Additionally, all attendees received Beef Quality Assurance Certification and a one-year membership in the Georgia Cattlewomen’s Association.