Farm women are decision makers – Annie’s Project prepares them well

Farm and ranch women are generating a cultural tide in American agriculture that is moving management, assets and opportunities to a new wave of farmers across the country.

Through Annie’s Project, farm women become empowered to be better business partners or sole operators through networks and by managing and organizing critical information.

Annie’s Project is a six-week course that is a discussion-based workshop bringing women together to learn from experts in production, financial management, human resources, marketing and the legal field.

There’s plenty of time for questions, sharing, reacting and connecting with presenters and fellow participants. It’s a relaxed, fun and dynamic way to learn, grow and meet other farm women.

Whether new or experienced, understanding the five areas of agricultural risk, knowing how to analyze agricultural spreadsheets and other necessary skills are vital. Learning them in a friendly environment where questions and discussion are welcomed allow the learning process to flourish.

Annie’s Project courses have successfully reached more than 9,000 farm and ranch women in 33 states.

The next one in our area begins on Feb. 25. Classes will be held in a cooperative effort between Hendricks and Putnam counties.

The cost for the course is $75 per person, which includes a workbook and support materials for all sessions. Light snacks will be provided. The course size is limited, so please register soon.

Linda, an Annie’s Project alumna, says, “I took the class to gain a better understanding about agribusiness and how financial decisions impact our farm operation. I have a better understanding of balance sheets and the futures market … this class has improved communication with my spouse on concerns he works with on a daily basis.”

For more information, contact Jenna Nees at 653-8411 or email smith535@purdue.edu.

Visit www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or contact the local Purdue Extension office at 653-8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs.

While many publications are free, some do have a fee. Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. All times listed are Eastern Time.

Upcoming Events:

Feb. 4 – Winter Walking group, 9 a.m., DePauw indoor track

Feb. 4 – YQCA, Extension office, 6-7 p.m.

Feb. 6 – Small-Scale Ag conference, 6-9 p.m., Beef House, $25, registration required

Feb. 7 – Be Heart-Smart, 10 a.m., Putnam County Hospital, registration required

Feb. 10 – Roachdale Congregate meals begin, 12-noon, Roachdale Community Center

Feb. 11 – Winter Walking group, 9 a.m., DePauw indoor track

Feb. 17 – Winter ag update, 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., $20, Putnam County Fairgrounds, registration required

Feb. 25 – Annie’s Project starts, 6-9 p.m., $75, locations vary, registration required