The Role of Women in Agriculture

Learn more about the essential and understated role of women in agriculture.

According to the USDA 2022 Ag Census, roughly a third of the nation’s farmers—more than 1.2 million producers—are women. But the number of women in agriculture likely exceeds that and dates back to the origin of agriculture itself.

For generations, women have played a pivotal role in American agriculture and food security. This role has evolved over the years to encompass all areas of farm operations, with acute attention to detail and a constant commitment to produce high-quality food and fiber for our nation and the world. Women have always been a part of agriculture, from working directly in the field to supporting those who do. But recognition for their efforts has only gained traction over the last several decades.

The designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Female Farmer aims to spotlight the essential yet often overlooked role women play throughout agrifood systems, from farm production to international trade.

Women in Agriculture: Homesteaders to Modern-Day Operators

During early Colonial America, 90 percent of agriculture was subsistence farming to support individual families. As the population grew and westward expansion of canals introduced new trade opportunities, farmers’ focus began to shift towards cash-crop production as a source of income for their families. American farms quickly rose from just over one million farms in 1850 to nearly four million in 1880. By the mid-1950s, women had not only helped in the expansion of agriculture but maintained family farmlands through two world wars and domestic crises, like the 1930’s Dust Bowl.

As the definition of American agriculture expands, so does the number of female leaders within it. They’re making a difference not just as farm operators, but as scientists, CEOs, economists, veterinarians, conservationists, and more. The immeasurable impact that women have had on U.S. agriculture has only recently gained recognition through farm statistics. According to the 2022 USDA ag census, 36 percent of U.S. farmers are women. More than half of U.S. farms (58%) report having at least one female producer actively involved in the operation.

Opportunities for Women in Agriculture

As the number of women in agricultural leadership roles increases, so does their involvement in empowering organizations and programs across the country. These initiatives provide like-minded women with the resources they need to expand their networks and expertise in agriculture.

• USDA’s Women in Ag Initiative. A USDA program that aims to promote women’s leadership in agriculture.
• Women in Ag Learning Network. An initiative that offers educational programs and resources for farm and ranch women.
• Women-Owned Businesses. An initiative by the U.S. Small Business Administration that provides training and funding for entrepreneurial women.
• American Agri-Women. The largest national coalition of farm, ranch, and agribusiness women who have been promoting and advocating for agriculture since 1974.
• Farm Bureau Women. A network of like-minded women who provide scholarships for community projects and opportunities for leadership, political involvement, and networking

Supporting Female Farmers as Leaders in Agriculture

At AgAmerica, we stand behind our nation’s female farmers and ranchers. We are grateful for these remarkable women who are creating legacies for future generations and reshaping the industry as we know it. We are proud to support these women through sponsorships, financing, and unparalleled counsel to set their operations up for lasting success.

But don’t take our words for it, explore our library of success stories to see how we’ve supported a range of producers reaching their financial goals.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards financial resilience, speak with one of our team members today to learn more about the loan programs and resources we offer.