2026 is the Year of the Woman Farmer
The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer! As an organization, The Land Conservancy of McHenry County (TLC) has celebrated the invaluable contributions of FarmHers for years and we are excited to see their hard work and dedication honored on a global scale!
While over half of U.S. farming operations are owned by women, they still face systemic structural and social barriers that affect their lives, businesses and the health of their land. When women are connected in peer-peer networks, like TLC’s Learning Circles, and to financial and technical resources, they’re more likely to take action toward implementing conservation practices on their land. As we work to preserve and steward land in McHenry County, we must also support its stewards. If we want thriving farms, we need thriving farmHers!
From ordering seeds and planting crops, to tending to livestock and young farm-hands, to packing up for markets and developing marketing plans, to wrangling equipment and refurbishing aging infrastructure, FarmHers wear many hats and juggle a variety of different responsibilities to ensure the success of their farms. TLC has had the privilege of getting to know these dynamic women through Learning Circles, TLC events, and other community programs. We invite you to hear their stories and celebrate their achievements as we take a closer look at the women who make up our local farming community!
We’d also like to thank the inspiring and creative Anna Lentz of Spring Bird Studios for designing our Year of the Woman Farmer artwork.
Support Your Local FarmHers
Invitation: Visit specific FarmHer farm stores or market stands, get a tote bag!
More details to be rolled out soon!
Events
Through many of our programs TLC looks to elevate and promote FarmHers. We are planning a year of tailored events throughout the county to shine a spotlight on our local farming community. There are four seasonal events planned; check back as additional partner events are added to the calendar.
Winter: Film Screening
Spring: Progressive Farm Tour
Summer: Farm-to-Table Dinner
Fall: FarmHer exhibit at Art of the Land
If you are hosting an event this year that is highlighting women in agriculture and would like to have it included here, please contact gmadsen@conservemc.org to have it added to the event list.
FarmHer Profiles
As a part of this year’s celebration, TLC is showcasing a FarmHer each month to highlight some of the many talented individuals in our farming community. We hope sharing these stories will generate a greater appreciation for the dedication and skills they bring to the table.
