A fun, full-day, female-focused AgricultHER School will return to the area on June 27.
Peace Country Beef & Forage Association operations director Alaina Archibald says they are proud to partner with municipalities, counties, and community organizations to bring the event back for its third consecutive year.
“What began as a shared vision among several collaborating organizations came to life with the launch of the AgricultHER School in 2024,” explains Archibald.
“The overwhelming response and positive feedback highlighted the importance and value of creating opportunities tailored specifically to rural women in agriculture across Northern Alberta and British Columbia.”
The event helps to provide some extra skills, knowledge, and guidance to women in the agricultural industry. This year the event is being held at Burnt River Ranch and Westmark Hall in Woking.
“Each year, the AgricultHER School rotates between the partnering municipalities and counties involved in organizing this event,” Archibald says.
“By moving the location annually, we hope to make attendance more accessible and affordable for participants, especially with the rising costs of fuel and everyday living expenses. Hosting the event in different communities also provides the opportunity to visit a new farm each year, creating valuable hands-on learning experiences and fostering meaningful connections within the agricultural community.”
The event is sponsored by PCBFA, Cows & Fish, Government of Alberta, County of Grande Prairie No. 1, M.D. of Greenview, Big Lakes County, Saddle Hills County, and M.D. of Fairview. The whole-day event will include a farm tour, producer panel, and discussions on farm management, mental health, and other relevant topics.
Archibald says the day will also have a professionally led yoga session and an opportunity for attendees to network with fellow women in the agricultural sector.
“It can be challenging to cover the vast title that agriculture encompasses in a single day, but we strive to offer something meaningful for everyone, regardless of their background or experience in agriculture,” she says.
“There is always something new to learn, and one of the most rewarding parts of this event is bringing together like-minded women to share ideas, inspiration, experiences, and conversations that resonate across the agricultural community,” she adds.
This year’s farm, Burnt River Ranches, will be showing attendees their operation, which focuses on quality pork production and some other livestock commodities.
“Once back at the hall, presentations range from soil health and rotational grazing, to forages and forage evaluation, riparian management and more,” says Archibald.
“Events like the AgricultHER School are important because they create opportunities for rural women in agriculture to connect, learn, and feel supported within an industry that can often be isolating.”
The day will begin at 9 a.m. and will run right until 6 p.m., with both lunch and supper included.
“In effort to keep things as affordable as possible, our 2026 registration fee is $35 per person, this includes two meals, a swag bag and more,” Archibald says.
The theme is Land, Life, Learning, and Legacy.
“Agriculture is constantly evolving, and providing access to practical education, innovative ideas, and peer-to-peer networking helps participants build confidence, strengthen their operations, and develop valuable relationships within the industry,” Archibald says.
“These events also recognize and celebrate the vital role women play in agriculture, whether on the farm, in business, within families, or in their communities,” she adds.
“By bringing women together in a welcoming and collaborative environment, the AgricultHER School encourages the sharing of experiences, challenges, and successes while helping foster a stronger, more connected agricultural community.”
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter