GFB News Magazine

Women in Ag Ready to Lead, Study shows

Posted on October 1, 2026 12:05 PM

The American Farm Bureau Federation has unveiled the results of its National Women in Agriculture Study that will guide programming dedicated to women in agriculture the next five years. Based on data collected from an online survey and focus groups from last fall to this spring, the study provides a comprehensive look at the roles women in the U.S. play in agriculture, growth opportunities and areas needing additional support.

A key finding is that women have strong confidence in their ability to balance farm work and family responsibilities. Most respondents also have a high level of confidence in their ability to represent agriculture in public/professional settings. In fact, 9 out of 10 women report feeling confident speaking at community meetings about agriculture, and nearly 90% of women surveyed are interested in taking on leadership roles now or in the future.

The study identifies five areas where agriculture could increase support: time and caregiving; skill development; leadership involvement; financial security; and overall wellbeing. 

Of the women surveyed, 44% reported interest in gaining equipment or technical skills training, while 56% expressed interest in business, farm succession and financial management training.

The study shows 60% of women in ag work off the farm. Many survey participants said these jobs are not just about extra income but serve as a critical “insurance lifeline.”

Georgia Farm Bureau thanks everyone who took the survey. With 269 responses, Georgia had the second-highest response rate of the 50 states and Puerto Rico. Some 4,396 women in agriculture took the survey.

“Agriculture around the world has flourished with the full support of women — oftentimes behind the scenes — but increasingly in leadership roles,” said AFBF Women’s Leadership Chair Isabella Chism. “As we celebrate the International Year of the Woman Farmer along with the 250th anniversary of the United States, this is the perfect time to make sure everyone has a seat at the table in agriculture. This study allows us to take a closer look at the role women play in raising crops and tending livestock but also balancing off-farm jobs, caring for children, volunteering in their community, and so much more. This study provides a comprehensive look at the many hats worn by women in agriculture as well as opportunities to better support them.”

An executive summary of the study is available here.