“I believe that I am making an impact, just as equally as anyone else. Though there are physical limitations for myself, I still believe that I am just as capable as the next person.“

Q: Tell us about your agricultural operation, your background and how you got started in agriculture. 

I was born and raised here in Nevada on this ranch and have supported my family’s operation since the day I could sit on a horse. We run a cow/calf operation of about 200 head, which is drastically lower than the 1800 head that we used to run. My parents and grandparents decided to sell most of the land due to financial challenges but opted to keep the tradition alive for me and my cousins and siblings. Throughout school my siblings and I have been involved in all things ag, such as FFA, 4-H, and others. I personally show livestock at the national level.

Our operation is all family owned and ran. My mother and myself are over the cattle side of things, where we deal with the 200 head of cattle and calves. I have my own herd of 20 club cattle that I raise for show.

My mom and my grandparents have ran and operated this ranch for over 30 years now.

Q: What does working in agriculture, and specifically being a woman in agriculture, mean to you?

I believe that I am making an impact, just as equally as anyone else. Though there are physical limitations for myself I still believe that I am just as capable as the next person.

Q: What do you wish the next generation of women in agriculture would know about your work? What advice would you give them?

I want them to know that there is always a way for you, others might try to put you down and tell you that you aren’t enough, or believe that you do not have the knowledge to run and do things. Believe in yourself, even if you have been set aside, and put your faith in God.

Q: Have you had access to formal education or informal training programs to help you grow your operation?

Yes, FFA and 4-H have helped me personally to improve my knowledge on range and soils. I apply this to the ranch to make decisions on what nutrients the cattle may need at certain times.

Q: What would make it easier for women in agriculture to access the capital they need?

More learning opportunities and equal support from those in high positions.

Q: Describe a specific challenge you faced and how you overcame it. 

My family has fought hard in a battle for our allotment and water rights that were stripped of us. While we are still in the thick of this, reaching out and talking about it with family members has been our saving grace.