LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Farm women are generating a cultural tide in American agriculture that is moving management, assets, and opportunities to a new wave of farmers across the country. At Annie’s Project courses, farm women become empowered to be better business partners or sole operators through networks and by managing and organizing critical information.

Annie’s Project is a six-session course that is a discussion-based workshop bringing women together to learn from experts in production, financial management, human resources, marketing, and the legal field. There's plenty of time for questions, sharing, reacting, and connecting with presenters and fellow participants. It's a relaxed, fun and dynamic way to learn, grow and meet other farm women.

Whether new or experienced, understanding the five areas of agricultural risk, knowing how to analyze agricultural spreadsheets and other necessary skills are vital. Learning them in a friendly environment where questions and discussion are welcomed, allow the learning process to flourish.

Annie’s Project courses have successfully reached more than 9,000 farm and ranch women in 33 states. The next Annie's Project is being co-sponsored by University of Illinois Extension, Fulton-Mason-Peoria-Tazewell Unit, Fulton County Farm Bureau, and Dunteman & Company. Annie’s Project is designed to help farm women develop their management and decision-making skills in the dynamic, complex world of agriculture. 

Dates are set for June 7, 8, 14, 16, 21, and 23, 6 to 9 p.m. at the Fulton County Farm Bureau, 15411 N IL 100 Hwy, Lewistown, IL. The cost to attend is $50 for first time attendees. Annie's Project alumni are invited to attend as a refresher for $30. Registration is required at go.illinois.edu/AnniesProjectFMPT

For more information contact Christine Belless, Extension ag and natural resources program coordinator, at cbelless@illinois.edu or call 309-547-3711.