HURON, SOUTH DAKOTA — February 12, 2026 — The Women’s Ag Network (WAN) has officially launched a statewide program designed to connect, elevate, and support women in agriculture, conservation, and related fields across South Dakota.
Built specifically for women working in agriculture and conservation, WAN is structured around a regional hub model that recognizes the diversity of South Dakota agriculture. Statewide regional hubs allow participants to engage locally through gatherings, conversations, and programming tailored to the needs of their area.
“Agriculture and conservation look different across South Dakota, and our hub model reflects that,” said Rebecca Blue, Founder of the Women’s Ag Network. “WAN was created based on direct feedback from women who wanted more opportunities for connection. Our hubs meet women where they are, creating meaningful relationships close to home while still being part of something bigger.”
Over the past year, WAN conducted a statewide survey and hosted focus groups with women involved in agriculture and conservation. The feedback consistently highlighted a desire for stronger connections, peer support, and opportunities to engage with others facing similar challenges and opportunities. That input shaped the structure and focus of the program.
The Women’s Ag Network will kick off its programming with a series of regional hub launch events across the state. Each hub launch event will introduce the Women’s Ag Network and provide an opportunity for connection and networking among women involved in agriculture and conservation. Pre-registration is required for each event and is available at www.womensagnetwork.org.
Upcoming hub launch events include:
- East Central Hub Launch – February 25 at 5 p.m. at the Cornerpost Grapefarm and Wine House, Huron, SD. RSVP by February 23.
- North Central Hub Launch – February 26 at 4 p.m. at the Cheyenne River Cultural Center, Eagle Butte, SD. RSVP by February 24.
- Southeast Hub Launch – March 4 at 5:30 p.m. at the Stockyards Ag Experience, Sioux Falls, SD. RSVP by March 2.
- West Hub Launch – March 5 social at 5:30 p.m. at the Shortgrass Resort, Spearfish, SD. RSVP by March 3.
Each hub is led by a local woman who helps guide regional engagement and programming.
“Women play a critical role in the success and continuation of agriculture and conservation,” said Blue. “WAN is about co-elevation—creating opportunities for women to connect, collaborate, and contribute to their communities. Stronger networks create stronger operations and stronger communities, and that benefits everyone.”
The Women’s Ag Network was developed through a Conservation Collaboration Cooperative Agreement between USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Jones County Conservation District, and the South Dakota Association of Conservation Districts.
For more information about the Women’s Ag Network, upcoming hub launches, or how to get involved, visit www.womensagnetwork.org.
