“Having grown up on a farm before college and earning savings for college by working on farms, once my family had grown, I chose to go into farming. After looking at several choices, I picked a new venue of alpacas. . . Alpacas allowed me to educate surrounding school groups, seniors, and special needs groups.”

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

Having grown up on a farm before college and earning savings for college by working on farms, once my family had grown, I chose to go into farming. After looking at several choices, I picked a new venue of alpacas. They are safe around children (I have grandchildren), are easy to care for, and need minimal fencing/housing. Alpacas allowed me to educate surrounding school groups, seniors, and special needs groups.

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

Agriculture allows me flexibility, a return to crafts with the product of fiber being converted into yarn, and a nationwide group of other women similar to myself.

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

I regret I didn’t challenge more government regulations such as if my farm was a hobby or a business for tax purposes. Secondly, why our state would not make an effort and law to offer alpaca meat to be slaughtered and sold in states. All other animals are culled if not suitable for breeding.

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

Yes I have taken both in person and online education offered to enhance my knowledge.

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

Grant programs are a good source but education to other farm varieties would help, to be inclusive when opportunities are offered to farms. Make it ALL farms not just dairy, beef, or chicken. We now have seafood, produce and other sources of farming.

Q: What technologies or innovations have made the biggest difference on your farm? How do you stay informed about best practices, weather, markets, or new technologies?

Getting help with the 490-program helped but there needs to be more information for marketing, agritourism, and insurance for farmers.