Fifty Years, One Mission

Fifty years ago, a small group of women met in the Coachella Valley with a mission: help policymakers and consumers better understand California agriculture. That 1975 meeting led to the creation of California Women for Agriculture, now the state’s most active all-volunteer ag organization.

Today, CWA includes 1,500 members from Butte County to the Mexican border, representing farmers, ranchers, bankers, lawyers, and food producers. Former president and Lake County walnut grower Sharron Zoller says the group’s name reflects its inclusive spirit.

“Our name was carefully chosen,” Zoller said. “They chose for instead of in to be sure everyone who believed in the mission would join.”

CWA recently marked its 50th anniversary in La Quinta, honoring founding members, including first state president Cherry Ishimatsu, who celebrated her 100th birthday.

Through farm tours, leadership programs, and meetings with lawmakers in Sacramento and Washington, the group continues to connect agriculture with decision makers.

Half a century after those first conversations, California Women for Agriculture is still making sure the people who grow our food have a voice at the table.