By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) and the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) hosted a special trade mission for a group of women cattle producers from Chihuahua, Mexico. This unique program highlighted the growing role of women in agriculture and supported global trade connections in the cattle industry.
The delegation included six members from Mujeres Ganaderas de México, also known as Cattlewomen of Mexico. During the first week of March, the group traveled across New Mexico and Kansas to learn about U.S. beef cattle genetics, meet producers, and explore opportunities for future business partnerships.
Women play an important role in agriculture worldwide, but they often have fewer chances to join trade missions and leadership programs. This mission, organized during the International Year of the Woman Farmer, helped promote equal opportunities and recognized the leadership of women in farming and ranching.
In Kansas, the group visited several well-known operations, including Jensen Ranch’s annual bull sale, Fink Beef Genetics, and Downey Ranch Inc. These visits allowed participants to observe breeding systems, learn about herd performance, and discuss export opportunities. Some members also began follow-up discussions about buying genetics such as semen for their herds.
The group also attended Kansas State University events, including Stockmen’s Dinner and Cattlemen’s Day. These events provided valuable information about research, market trends, and networking with industry leaders.
In New Mexico, the delegation toured cattle ranches, attended a bull sale, and met with leaders from the New Mexico Beef Council and the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association. These activities helped participants understand different production practices and expand their industry knowledge.
Throughout the mission, the participants exchanged ideas and evaluated how U.S. genetics could improve their operations. They also joined networking sessions with women in agriculture, focusing on leadership and collaboration.
“Mexico is an important market for beef genetics, and this visit expanded those connections to support long-term growth opportunities for Kansas livestock producers,” said Secretary Mike Beam. “We appreciate our partnership with USLGE as well as with our counterparts at the New Mexico Department of Agriculture.”
This effort was supported by U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Inc., with funding from the USDA Market Access Program. It showed the importance of global partnerships and the growing influence of women in agriculture.
For more information, contact:
Katheryn Wessel at Katheryn.Wessel@ks.gov or 785-564-7466
Juan Sanchez at jsanchez@nmda.nmsu.edu or 575-339-5047
Photo Credit: gettyimages-scharfsinn86
Categories: Kansas, Business, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle