According to the 2012 Ag. Census, Taylor County has 5,642 acres on 63 farms with a woman as principal operator. This is a loss of 7 farms and 600 acres from the 2007 Ag Census.  With the loss of women as principal farm operators, Adair, Green and Taylor County Extension Services cooperated in conducting a state pilot Master Cattlewoman Shortcourse. The shortcourse was developed to enhance the participants’ knowledge of beef production, to network with each other and promote leadership development. 

Educational sessions included: Facility Design, Livestock/Environmental Concerns, Industry Resources, Health, Pasture Considerations, Forages/Nutrition and Producer Insight.

According to post survey, the participants now have a moderate level of beef cattle management knowledge. Animal health was the most beneficial session. Participants gained knowledge each session according to the pre/post survey. One participant stated she wished she had taken the Master Cattlemen Shortcouse years ago after participating in the Master Cattlewomen Shortcourse.