There is a motivating force that emerges when you are surrounded by people who share your values, meet you where you are, and connect in person on a deeper level. I recently experienced this firsthand at Rooted and Rising, a woman-only learning circle centered around conservation and organic farming. The Land Conservancy of McHenry County, Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, and The Land Connection teamed together to organize the learning circle, which was held on April 22 at Silver Tree Spirits in Paxton.
The event also marked the launch of Illinois Women in Conservation (ILWiC) by Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, the same organization that has led the formation and growth of Wisconsin Women in Conservation (WiWiC). Both networks are rooted in a shared mission to build strong communities of women who are more empowered to shape the future of their landscapes. It is exciting to witness such a network take root in Illinois.
Women tend to be the driving force behind farms. They are often the ones who coordinate, plan, nurture, grow, preserve, and become powerful advocates for the family farm’s legacy. Their commitment is the backbone of many farms.
Our learning circle, which had about 20 attendees, focused on cultivating a sense of belonging among people who care deeply about how their farmland is cared for. In that space, important conversations surfaced. Many were around the challenges of farm succession planning.
We see the challenges of succession planning all the time in our work at Illinois FarmLink. Family dynamics are often hard to navigate. Planning your legacy decades into the future is no easy thing. The difference between fair and equal is something that not everyone thinks about, but really should. Another common pattern we see is families not starting the planning early enough. It’s easy to underestimate how long this planning takes.
The Rooted & Rising event made clear that being with others who are facing similar challenges offers hope to those already planning generational transition and inspires those who have yet to begin. That’s powerful. Your story could inspire someone else, and someone else’s story could inspire you.
If you’ve been hesitant to step outside your comfort zone and attend an in-person gathering around any farm topic (and especially succession planning), consider this your sign to take that step. Do it for yourself, for your family, and for the legacy you hope to build.
Here’s to the women who lead and light the way for others!
Erica Peters
Central Illinois FarmLink Navigator