This year marks both the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralist (IYRP) and the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF). It’s a powerful pairing that shines a global spotlight on the people who steward our grazing lands. To launch its series of IYRPthemed activities, the Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA) is hosting a Canadian Zoom watch party of the North American Women’s Pastoralist Gathering on Feb. 7. 
 
Highlighting women’s leadership is especially timely. Women make up a vital part of the extensive livestock sector in Canada and around the world. From managing cattle and sheep to stewarding grazing lands, women pastoralists play an essential role in the health and productivity of Canada’s rangeland and forage systems. Yet many continue to face barriers that limit their full participation, including reduced access to peer networks, markets, grazing opportunities and leadership pathways. 
 
Today’s pastoral sector is navigating a period of rapid change. Climate variability, invasive species, generational transition and shifting market conditions are reshaping how producers operate. In the midst of these pressures, women pastoralists bring invaluable insight. Their approaches to sustainable management, community building and holistic rangeland stewardship strengthen the resilience of grazing systems and the communities that depend on them. 
 
That’s why the CFGA’s Zoom watch party is more than just a shared viewing experience. It’s a virtual chance to spotlight women’s leadership, foster connection and spark conversations about the future of forage and grassland management. 
 
Come as you are, bring your beverage of choice and relax as we enjoy the following sessions: 
  -  Panel discussion: How we connect to women across the globe with Lauren Svjecar, Theresa Becchetti, Maria Fernández-Giménez and moderator Kaitlyn Glover 
  -  Keynote address: The role of women pastoralists in environmental sustainability and climate adaption. Speaker: Sarah King.  
  -  Panel discussion: How have you created opportunities on your ranch? Speakers: Debbie Lyons-Blythe and Rizpah Bellard. 
  -  Round table discussions: Topics to be provided 
  -  Skill building workshop: Advocacy 101. Facilitators: Brandi Buzzard, Kim Brackett and Cole Bush 
 
Learn more about the speakers here. Event information, including a full agenda, is available here.  
 
Throughout the CFGA watch party, virtual attendees will be invited to participate in an open discussion, offering space to reflect on key themes, share insights, ask questions and exchange perspectives with others from diverse agricultural and rural backgrounds. Participants are encouraged to engage at a level that feels comfortable, whether actively participating in discussion or observing. 
   
If you’re a pastoralist or rancher woman in Canada, the CFGA invites you join this welcoming, come-as-you-are, virtual event. Register for the CFGA Zoom watch party here.