In a significant milestone for Alstede Farms in Chester, New Jersey, sisters Rebekah Alstede Modery and Sarah Alstede have joined their father and stepmother as co-owners, making the farm now majority women-owned. This move reflects a growing trend of women taking on key decision-making roles in the agricultural industry.

With a background in agricultural business and sustainable agricultural production, Rebekah, 24, knew from a young age that she wanted to continue the family legacy on the farm. Similarly, Sarah, 22, opted to pursue a degree in animal science with a focus on equine studies, solidifying her commitment to farming.

The inclusion of the younger generation of Alstede women as owners highlights the shift towards recognizing the important contributions women are making within the industry. According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, around 36% of all producers in the United States are women, with a significant percentage involved in day-to-day decision-making, record-keeping, financial management, land use, and estate planning.

Historically, the role of women in farming has been overlooked, with previous census data failing to capture their involvement. However, recent updates to data collection practices have shed light on the pivotal role women play in the agricultural sector. The 2022 Census of Agriculture indicates that women are more likely than men to be involved in record-keeping and financial management, with a notable 71% versus 70%. Additionally, both genders are equally involved in estate and succession planning, at 53%.

As Rebekah and Sarah take on key farming decisions, they will face various financial challenges. Despite the number of producers remaining relatively stable, farms are consolidating, resulting in larger average farm sizes and increased debt. Interest rate hikes have made financing more expensive, creating liquidity challenges for farmers across the country.

Furthermore, climate change and extreme weather conditions pose additional difficulties for farmers. Temperature fluctuations, rainfall changes, and other weather-related challenges can strain resources and increase financial demands. Alstede Farms itself recently experienced a frost-freeze period, which jeopardized the life of new blooms. The farm had to employ various measures, such as double-covering strawberries and utilizing fans to keep apple trees warm—a costly endeavor.

While there are risk management tools available, sometimes the adverse effects of climate change are too substantial. Alstede Farms, known for its apple-picking festivities, lost several weekends due to heavy rain last year and had to sell hundreds of tons of apples at significantly reduced prices.

Despite these challenges, Rebekah and Sarah are determined to carry on the family traditions and face whatever the future may bring. Growing up witnessing their family's resilience in the face of hardships has instilled in them the grit and determination necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of farming.

As women continue to make strides in the agriculture industry, their contributions are being acknowledged and celebrated. Alstede Farms' new generation of women owners exemplifies the expanding influence of women in farming and their capacity to tackle the financial and environmental hurdles that lie ahead.