Farm Management Canada working with CentricEngine has researched the pivotal role of farm women in Canada's agricultural sector.
Their groundbreaking research titled "Expanding Opportunities for Canadian Agriculture by Understanding the Experience of Farm Women" dispels many long-standing stereotypes.
Surprisingly, it's not just demographics or farm-specific details that dictate their experiences. The human relationships and interactions they foster play a far more significant role.
This revelation underscores that a blanket approach can't capture the multifaceted experiences of these women.
Women in agriculture have their hands in virtually every aspect of farming operations, showcasing the breadth and depth of their contributions.
Yet, despite these immense contributions, they still grapple with numerous challenges. Among these, effective communication stands out as a major concern.
Ensuring that women feel valued, and their skills aptly used, is a significant determinant in their overall experience.
Farm Management Canada's Executive Director, Heather Watson, encapsulates the sentiment: "By recognizing and supporting the unique needs of farm women, we can unlock tremendous potential for advancing Canada’s agricultural sector from the grassroots, paving the way for future generations of farmers in Canada."
The study suggests a roadmap comprising over 30 recommendations, spanning from promoting gender equity to emphasizing the importance of interpersonal skills in farming.
The recommendations fall under six (6) distinct groupings as outline in the media release:
- Support gender equity and equality initiatives in policy development, programming and governance
- Create and enhance programming, development opportunities, and resources that specifically address the needs of farm women
- Dedicate efforts beyond women in agriculture to focus exclusively on supporting farm women
- Promote communication and interpersonal skills along with business management practices as essential components of farming
- Expand existing research to more effectively capture data related to farm women (ex. Census)
- Conduct additional research on the experience and contributions of farm women, factors that influence farm success, and a comparative study of farm men using the same human-centered lens
A key takeaway is the need for targeted support and resources tailored exclusively for farm women, suggesting a significant shift in the way we approach this domain.
This November, in Guelph, Ontario, this insightful research will take center stage at the 2023 Agricultural Excellence Conference.
Here, policymakers, researchers, and farming enthusiasts will discuss how these findings can steer the future of Canadian agriculture.
By recognizing and empowering these women, Canada's agricultural horizon looks promising, teeming with untapped potential.
Celebrate and support our farm women. Their stories, experiences, and contributions are not just personal triumphs but monumental strides for Canadian agriculture.
Source : Small Farm Canada