An Invitation to the Women in Ag Learning Network Mary Peabody, University of Vermont Madeline Schultz, Iowa State University April 2, 2014 E-RME Women in Ag Educators Conference

Formation of Learning Network Jump started with initial funding from CHS Foundation Held F2F formation meeting Mar31-Apr1 Leadership team Open membership – To join, go to

Leadership Team Front, L to R: Mary Peabody, Margaret Viebrock, Marsha Laux, Madeline Schultz. Back, L to R: Lisa Scarbrough, Beth Holtzman, Bobbie Shaffett, Sylvia Clark, Jason Johnson, Heather Niekirk, Mary Sobba, Gigi Neal and Teresa Lyle.

Extension educators as leaders and contributors –Also ag service providers –USDA agency professionals Women in ag as advisors and contributors –Farm and ranch women –Also, processors, marketers, others Inclusive Learning Network

Situation Learning Network –primarily benefits farm and ranch women –secondarily benefits educators Women in ag are influential decision makers on farms and ranches –Focus on what is important to women Educators desire a broader reach –Connection

Societal Conditions Women in ag improve: –farm profitability –family farm sustainability and resiliency –rural lifestyle satisfaction –rural / community vitality –food security –farm transition planning Educators improve: –outreach to women in ag

Launch Date - July 15, 2014 Launch Priorities –Ask an Expert –Webinars –Social Media –Calendar –Basic Content Next Steps –Articles –Videos –Courses –Blogs –Links –Maps

Basic Content Start with low hanging fruit –Good content that network members can re-purpose and extend the reach with –How to use eXtension and suggested resources Move Investing for Farm Families already on eXtension to this site –Unique roles of women USDA Census Reviews of research

Committees Basis for accomplishing our work together –Shared interests –Learning with each other –Contribute in ways that help each person within their own state, as well as to contribute nationally Learning Network workspace –

Thank you for your interest! Mary Peabody Madeline Schultz