In Adair County, cattle operations make up 765 of the total 1243 farms.  Overall, 8% of those farms are defined as having a female principal operator and 39% are defined as having a female operator involved with the farm.  (USDA Census 2012).  These statistics are just one example of evidence of the important role women play in agriculture.  Educational efforts targeting women in agriculture is just one more method the Cooperative Extension Service improves communities within the agriculture industry.

In 2018, the Adair, Green and Taylor County Cooperative Extension Services collaborated to conduct a state pilot Master Cattlewoman Short Course. The Short Course was developed to enhance the participants’ knowledge of beef production, network with each other and to 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 Short Course years ago after participating in the Master Cattlewomen Short Course.