USDA Reports Rise in Women in Agriculture: Emmons County Rancher Shares Her Journey

EMMONS County, N.D. (KFYR) – A transformation is underway in agriculture. According to the USDA, there has been an increasing presence of women in this sector over the past two decades.

Women farmers and ranchers currently make up over 36% of all producers, contributing approximately $222 billion in agricultural sales to the U.S. economy. They manage about 407 million acres, with 900 of these acres being tended by Hannah Jacob.

Hannah Jacob said she’s livin’ the dream.

“It’s our life,” said 24-year-old farmer and rancher Hannah Jacob.

She said days like today make all the hard work that goes into running her father’s farm and ranch worth it.

“It’s beautiful out here. You’re kind of in the middle of nowhere. You have your own peace, your own privacy. It’s a love you kind of never get rid of,” said Hannah.

Hannah said her earliest memories took place on this Emmons County pasture.

“I was probably six or seven years old. I had two bottle calves, and they were so trained. They would go through the shoot. They would load in the stock trailer. I’m pretty sure I had them halter broke also, and they would just lay around the yard and wait for their bottle morning and night— just so tame,” said Hannah.

"She shares my affection for cattle," stated Duane Jacob, owner and operator of the Jacob Quarterhorse Ranch.

Currently, Hannah helps out her father, Duane. However, before long, she could end up being the one making the decisions.

"The ultimate objective is to maintain this initiative," stated Hannah, noting the scarcity of such efforts.

“It feels wonderful knowing she wishes to tread the same path I did and eventually take over one day. It gives me such a positive sensation," stated Duane.

Regarding the reason this field appears to be drawing more women, Hannah and Duane share their insights.

"There are stronger maternal urges to keep it alive. We women are essentially fostering its return. You stay committed to it. You work to revive it. You leave no stone unturned," Hannah stated.

"It's about having the freedom to work outdoors rather than staying indoors daily for a job. Being your own boss," explained Duane.

While it isn’t always glamorous, Hannah and her father concur that the beauty, vitality, and marvel of it all justify every bit of exertion.