Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Peace River and area ladies who are involved in agriculture, get ready for a Northern Women in Ag Conference that is set to take place Feb. 20 at the Dunvegan Inn and Suites in Fairview!
“I’m very passionate about shining light on underrepresented groups and spreading agricultural awareness and education,” says Peace Country Beef Association extension and office manager Alaina Archibald.
“While there are similar events that support Women in Agriculture, this is the first of its kind in Northern Canada and we are thrilled to be back for a second year in 2025.”
Archibald says this seminar will be geared toward providing ideas and innovation to the women in agriculture.
“Statistically, agricul- ture is a heavily male-dominant field, but behind the majority of these men are their wife’s and partners,” she notes.
“These women are often the backbone of the industry; the unsung heroes who deserve acknowledgement and an event catered specifically to them,” she adds.
Archibald says there are four guest speakers attending the conference, including Bluesette Campbell talking about Finding Your Way in Ag, Josefine Bartlett talking about Roots in Sweden, Harvests in Canada: My Love for Agriculture, Dr. Christa Harder with her discussion about thriving Through the Challenges of Ranching, Parenting, and a Busy Career, and finally Amanda Ray who will speaking about Advocating for Mental Health in Agriculture.
“There is something for everyone at the Northern Women in Ag Conference!” Archibald exclaims.
“We have a great lineup of empowering female speakers from various avenues of agriculture, as well as a female-focused booth fair and multiple workshops. We will cover topics like finding your way in agriculture, soil and herd health, social media and digital management and more.”
Peace Country Beef Association is partnering with Northwestern Polytechnic Fairview Campus for a calving clinic. Here, attendees will have the chance to learn about common calving issues and practice with their calving simulator under expert eyes.
“Our second workshop is hosted by Dani Wearden, co-owner of Koefed Grain Farm and editor at Move Up Magazine,” she says.
“Dani will be captivating the crowd with a workshop based on marketing your farm online, we are in a technologically advanced world, where everything is available at your fingertips. While there are many benefits to print advertising, not having an online presence can be the difference between new clients and profitable growth.”
Tickets are $150 per person, and will cover the expense of both days, as well as meals during the conference. Archibald says not to hesitate on buying tickets because they expect to sell out early and there will be no tickets available at the door. Tickets are available online at www.peacecountrybeef.ca.