Business Management and Networking Conference for Women in Agriculture Subject of Colorado State Seminar

A business management and networking seminar tailored for agricultural women, hosted by Colorado State University and in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Risk Management Agency, will be offered on Oct. 19 in Greeley. The conference is designed to help women with risk and financial management training.

The one-day conference uses hands-on instruction tools (including computer-simulation and spreadsheets) to help participants determine their operation’s financial health, measure and set their own individual risk management goals, and identify the individual risks that may affect their operation.  The last session of the day is an open forum to discuss unique risks that participants face as female agricultural producers and to provide feedback and advice on how to manage these issues.  The forum will be facilitated by local female agricultural leaders.

For more information about the conference and registration, visit the conference website:  www.agwomenandrisk.com.

"While it is well known that there are many risks in agriculture, there have not been many formalized programs to educate producers in the five areas of risk, even at the college level," said Catherine Keske, a conference organizer and professor in Colorado State’s Department of Agriculture and Resource Economics.  "Few programs have addressed specific risks that female agricultural producers face."

Dana Hoag, also a professor in the department, is a co-organizer for the event.  Associate Dean of Colorado State’s College of Liberal Arts Alexandra Bernasek will serve as the keynote speaker.

The seminar is designed to provide women with risk management tools that they can customize for their own situation, whether they are an owner, operator, or new to agriculture.  An outlet for women to network and offer one another solutions and support is also offered.

The program has already received a significant amount of support from local agricultural leaders.  It is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Risk Management Agency.  Registration is complimentary, and a continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. Refreshments will also be provided following the conference, to encourage further networking.  There are also a limited number of lodging scholarships available.

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