March 8 was International Women’s Day, a global moment to recognize the women whose leadership, innovation and determination strengthen communities, industries and ecosystems. Across Canada’s forage and grassland sector, women are shaping the future of sustainable agriculture in ways that are both deeply practical and profoundly visionary. 
 
From producers stewarding thousands of acres of rangeland to researchers advancing climatesmart practices to policy leaders championing resilience and biodiversity, women are at the centre of the sector’s progress. Their contributions are essential to the health of Canada’s forage and grassland landscapes and to the longterm vitality of the livestock industry that depends on them. 
 
Stewarding vital landscapes 
Forage and grassland systems are among Canada’s most valuable natural assets. They store carbon, protect soil, support biodiversity and provide the foundation for a strong livestock sector. Women play a critical role in managing these landscapes with a longterm, systemsbased perspective, often leading the adoption of practices that build resilience. Their work spans adaptive grazing management, soilhealth monitoring, species diversification, droughtpreparedness planning and habitat conservation and restoration. Through these efforts, women strengthen both ecological and economic sustainability – two pillars that are inseparable in the forage and grassland world. 
 
A global moment 
This year’s International Women’s Day aligns with two significant global observances: the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF) and the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP). Together, they highlight the essential role women play in food production, land stewardship and the longterm resilience of rangeland and pastoral systems. 
 
Across Canada and around the world, women farmers, ranchers and pastoralists lead with innovation, adaptability and a deep commitment to sustainable land management. Their contributions extend far beyond the farm or ranch gate; they drive research adoption, strengthen local food systems, mentor the next generation and champion practices that protect soil, water and biodiversity. 
 
Both observances underscore the need for inclusive leadership, knowledge sharing and communitydriven solutions. Women bring unique perspectives that bridge traditional knowledge, scientific insight and practical ontheground experience, strengthening Canada’s voice in global discussions about sustainability and climate resilience. 
 
Women driving innovation 
Women across Canada are advancing forage and grassland science in ways that directly strengthen the sector’s resilience and longterm sustainability. They drive research on forage quality, grazing systems and climate adaptation, while also leading extension and knowledgetransfer programs that help producers put new practices into action. Many champion datadriven approaches to soil health and carbon sequestration while others shape the future of regenerative agriculture and ecosystemservice markets. Together, their work ensures producers have access to the tools, research and support they need to make informed, confident decisions. 
 
Women in the forage and grassland sector wear many hats, often all at once. They are producers and ranchers, veterinarians and agronomists, researchers and educators, policy advisors and program managers, entrepreneurs and innovators and community organizers and advocates. Their leadership strengthens rural communities, supports intergenerational farm transitions and builds a more inclusive and resilient agricultural sector. 
 
CFGA celebrates 
The CFGA is proud to work alongside women shaping the future of forage and grassland management in Canada. Their leadership inspires emerging producers, researchers and advocates and strengthens the entire sector. Supporting women in agriculture through mentorship, training, research opportunities and inclusive decisionmaking helps build a more resilient and sustainable future. 
 
The CFGA remains committed to elevating women’s voices, sharing their stories and ensuring they have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. On International Women’s Day, and every day, we celebrate the women who care for Canada’s forage and grassland landscapes and who lead with vision, strength and purpose.