Annie’s Project for Women in Agriculture Begins Feb. 8 near St. Onge

Women in agriculture looking for a bit of a boost can take advantage of the 2023 Annie’s Project, which starts in February at a ranch near St. Onge.

Annie’s Project, hosted by SDSU Extension, is designed to empower women in agriculture through education, networking and resources. Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist, said the program can help women with questions they aren’t sure how to answer.

“Have you ever asked a farm/ranch management question and not understood the answer? Have you ever signed papers at the bank or FSA and not really understood what they were for? Have you been thinking about if you have enough insurance or an estate plan? Have you wished you knew more about marketing your cattle or crops?” Salverson asked. “If you answered ‘yes’ to any one of these questions, then you are a perfect candidate for Annie’s Project.”

This year’s program starts Feb. 8 at the beautiful Besler Cadillac Ranch (19314 Helmer Rd.) near St. Onge. Women are encouraged to attend all sessions.

In-person sessions will run from 5:30 to 8:45 p.m. MT on Feb. 8, 15, 22 and March 1. Unique to this year’s program, participants will join the Feb. 13 and 27 sessions virtually from 6 to 7:30 p.m. MT from the comfort of their homes.

Over the course of the program, participants will learn about financial records, develop key communication skills, ask questions about retirement and estate planning, and expand marketing knowledge – all while having fun in a supportive learning environment.

Registration is due by Feb. 1. The cost is $150 per person, and meals will be served at each in-person session. To register, visit https://extension.sdstate.edu/events and search for “Annie’s Project”.

For more information, contact Jaelyn Whaley, Extension Sheep Field Specialist, or Robin Salverson, Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist.