Becky Fletcher, State Public Affairs Specialist2015 Soil and Water Conservation Society Annual Conference

Women Caring for the LandWomen’s Learning Circles in Indiana

The Numbers

• 10 WLC since 2013, plus 4 more before year end

USDA NRCS Outreach Charge

Reach out to all of our underserved communities, resulting in trust and full participation in all NRCS programs.

“We had an excellent response from the participants at the Women’s Learning Circles and they have actively been taking the information and applying on their land.” Jerod Chew, District Conservationist

“The Women’s Learning Circles resulted in some excellent new connections and conservation implementation with a growing group of landowners and land managers.” Brandy Daggett, District Conservationist

“After the learning circle I was invited to spend a few hours out on a farm owned by two of the women. Prior to the meeting, they didn't know NRCS existed and now they are thinking about CRP and EQIP. Both ladies are very excited about soil health and making improvements on their farm.” Ashley Linville, District Conservationist

What Did You Take Away From Today’s Program? “We have 40 acres near South Bend that is part farm, part woodland and part wetland. I got information that will help us restore it to close to what it used to be. There are a lot of resources out there if you know how to get to those resources, and this meeting helped with that.” Patty Fowler, St. Joseph County

“I have 130 acres of land that has been in the family since 1863. I was able to network and find out what others are doing on their property. Conservation has always been a part of me, and I’m working to restore the land to its natural habitat. It was a great opportunity to meet others who feel the same way.” Lou Nash, Tipton County

“The program offered an opportunity to learn about woodland management. We have 47 acres of woodland, and I learned about the organizations available to offer help.” Carol Reisert, Carroll County

What has the Women Caring for the Land event inspired you to do?

“I’ll continue to implement conservation practices on my farm. I attended the event last year and love the idea of getting together with women. They are the movers and the shakers and keep the community strong.” Sara Creech, Hendricks County

“Soil and water conservation is important, especially with decreasing resources. I want to do everything I can with available resources to preserve the land.” Angie Williams, Hendricks County

“I’ve heard about conservation practices like no till and have been doubtful, but this workshop has changed my mind. I’m going to adopt these practices and use the available resources to make it happen.” Martha Avery, Rush and Henry Counties

Questions?

email or call me for more informationrebecca.fletcher@in.usda.gov or 317-295-5825

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.