30th Anniversary of Wyoming Women in Agriculture

Floor Speech

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Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise today to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Wyoming Women in Agriculture. This organization is paving the way for a better future for all Wyoming ranchers.

Ranchers Sharon Cardwell and Peggy Price of Alcova, WY, had a casual conversation in 1993. They decided female ranchers needed an organization that addressed their distinct challenges. The role of women in ranching has changed over the years. Women are now actively involved in integral management decisions, either as independent ranchers or with their husbands. They are often isolated, far from the closest town or another ranch. Sharon and Peggy founded Wyoming Women in Ag to bring together a community of like-minded women. They were assisted by Jerry Buk and Debbie Johnson, both employees with the University of Wyoming extension office in Casper. The first board for Wyoming Women in Ag included Chairman Sharon Cardwell, Vice Chairman Peggy Price, Treasurer Anne Miles, and Secretary Ruth Stevenson.

In 1998, Wyoming Women in Ag was established with official nonprofit status. They are an ``organization that provides information on current topics important to women in the agriculture industry.'' They soon branched out from Natrona County and included women from all over the Cowboy State. Wyoming Women in Ag will celebrate their 30th anniversary at their 2023 Symposium and Diversity Tour in Worland, WY. This annual event brings women together who share a similar way of life. The event location rotates between counties and includes a speaker who is a featured industry professional. Women have the opportunity to connect with their fellow ranchers to ``ensure the next generation of women are educated, encouraged, and empowered to take on the challenges of meeting the world's growing food, fuel, and fiber needs.'' Attendees participate in a variety of workshops and have access to a trade show. The 2023 Women in Ag committee members are Abbi Rodgers, president; Julie Volker, vice president; Stacey Schmid, Secretary; Traci Faxon, Secretary; Angela Grant, Treasurer; and committee members Madison Trimble, Heidi Foy, and Caitlin Youngquist.

It is an honor for me to rise in recognition of this significant milestone. Bobbi joins me in extending our congratulations to Wyoming Women in Agriculture for their 30th anniversary.

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