She Farms, She Leads

The California Department of Food and Agriculture will participate in the International Year of the Woman Farmer in 2026, declared by the United Nations to recognize women’s essential role in agriculture and promote equity across food and farming systems. In California, women lead across the food value chain, from farming and ranching to processing, distribution, marketing, and retail.

California is home to more than 45,000 women producers, representing nearly 38 percent of all producers and operating on 63 percent of farms statewide.

To elevate these contributions, CDFA has partnered with CA Grown on a yearlong campaign to spotlight women farmers. This effort will be featured through a coordinated digital campaign and woven throughout CDFA and CA Grown initiatives in 2026. Cherie Watte, Executive Director of CA Grown, said, “One of the most influential women in my life was my grandmother, who farmed alongside my dad as an equal partner in our family operation.” She added, “I look forward to celebrating all women—past and present—who contribute to the success and innovation of California’s agricultural industry.”