Annie’s Project, a national program facilitated in Minnesota by University of Minnesota Extension, provides education for women on management and decision-making in the complex, dynamic world of agriculture. More than 500 Minnesota women have participated in Annie’s Project.
“It’s going to take all of us to face the challenges in ag and in the world,” says Doris Mold, co-CEO of national Annie’s Project. She spoke at a 20-year anniversary event for the program held at Farmfest in August.
The Annie’s Project curriculum provides an overview of the basics of farm risk management: human resources, production, financial, marketing and legal topics.
“We’re able to bring that information to the local level, reflecting conditions and Extension resources in Minnesota,” says Colleen Carlson, Extension agricultural production systems educator in Carver and Scott counties.
“Participants often form bonds during the six-week course, and they appreciate these connections and friendships that support them in their farming journey for years,” says Susanne Hinrichs, Extension educator in ag business management and the Women in Ag Network.
“I didn’t learn all of the answers in Annie’s Project, but I have connections now and know I have people on my team,” says participant Judy Watercott of St. Cloud.
So who is Annie? Ruth Hambleton, a now-retired University of Illinois Extension educator, launched Annie’s Project in honor of her mother, Annette Kohlhagen Fleck, who was an active partner in the family farm.
In Minnesota, the curriculum has been facilitated by Extension in partnership with Compeer, Farm Service Agency, area Soil and Water Conservation Districts, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and others.
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