In honor of the United Nations 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer, University of Minnesota Extension shines a light on the essential roles women play to lead their farms to success, even through tough times.
According to the most recent ag census, 35,623 women in Minnesota are farmers. Over half of the 65,000 farms in Minnesota have a female working on them. Extension engages these women through research and education in agriculture and farm business management, leadership, family and youth development, and agritourism.
"Extension's Women in Agriculture Network is honored to highlight the many ways women contribute to Minnesota agriculture,” says Susanne Hinrichs, University of Minnesota Extension agricultural business management educator. “Their leadership, innovation, and resilience are vital to the success of our farms, our communities, and global food security.”
Peace Mitchell: Frog Tree Farm
One of Minnesota’s oldest continuously operated Black-owned family farms, Frog Tree Farm is partnering with RSDP to create a heritage trail that celebrates Black rural history, art, and culture.
Rachel Arneson: Arneson Farms
Arneson Farms in Halstad was established in 1886. Rachel Arneson, an agricultural leader and an active first responder, shares her unique path to leading her family farm.
Naima Dhore: Naima's Farm, LLC
Naima Dhore is the founder of the Somali American Farmers Association; 2025 Bush Fellow; operator of Naima’s Farm, LLC; and a community advocate.
Carrie Calvo: Owl Bluff Farm
Owl Bluff Farm cultivates a vibrant variety of produce on less than an acre of land. A new farm-scale deep winter greenhouse helps them grow food crops through cold winters.
Aubree Paplow: 4-H'er, Graff Feedlots, LLC
Aubree Paplow is the president of the Cottonwood County 4-H Federation and the Amboy Sunrisers 4-H Club, serving as an example of the many girls in 4-H committed to Minnesota agriculture.
Veronica Geisenhof, Country Sunshine MN
Veronica Geisenhof is a cut flower farmer, florist and agritourism operator in south of Brainerd. Family is a big part of everything she does.
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