Navigating the business side of farming can be challenging for women who may be kept at a distance in major decision-making, or if they are setting out in the career on their own. Annie's Project courses offered through the University of Illinois Extensiontry to empower women to improve skills as partners and sole operators of farms.
The six-session farm management course will be offered Tuesday and Thursday nights starting Feb. 16 and ending March 3 at the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau in Rockford.
Nikki Keltner is program coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension.
"Agriculture is changing. There is a lot going on and there are a lot of demands on farm women nowadays. This is designed to help them navigate all of those avenues so they can become an integral part of their operation."
Topics include estate planning, property titles, insurance, and drafting business plans. Keltner says the class is geared for women involved in farms of all sizes.
"You get to know one another and share stories amongst yourselves. Also, it is a safe environment. You are not afraid to ask those questions that are lingering in the back of your mind or questions that come up in the presentation," Keltner said.
Pre-registration is required at web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw or 815-986-4357
