BROOKINGS, S.D. – Women in agriculture are invited to attend the 2025 South Dakota State University Extension Women on the Range Grazing Workshop on July 22–24 at Wedge Tent Ranch near Faith.
Designed by women and for women, this immersive, hands-on workshop focuses on grazing management, plant identification, rangeland health and practical strategies for managing livestock on working landscapes. It is held in collaboration with Principled Land Managers, operated by Pat Guptill, of Quinn, and Bart and Shannon Carmichael, of Faith.
Registration and hotel information will be released soon on extension.sdstate.edu/events. A full schedule and details will be shared with registered attendees prior to the event. Women in surrounding states are welcome to attend.
“Workshops like this are critical to increasing the confidence of women in grazing management,” said Krista Ehlert, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Range Specialist. “By building technical knowledge and offering a supportive space to ask questions and get hands-on experience, we’re helping women make more informed, empowered decisions on their operations.”
Over four days, participants will dig into key grazing principles, learn to evaluate pasture conditions and explore how livestock interact with rangeland ecosystems. The workshop also emphasizes building community and confidence among women who are actively involved in ranch decision-making.
“One of the most powerful parts of this workshop is the space it creates for women to be honest about the struggles they face—whether it’s navigating family dynamics on the ranch or figuring out the best way to manage grazing,” said Shannon Carmichael. “There’s something really grounding about standing on the range together and realizing you’re not the only one trying to balance all the moving parts.”
Ehlert agreed, noting that the conversations and relationships developed during the workshop are just as valuable as the technical skills being taught.
For more information or to get on the participant list, contact Krista Ehlert, assistant professor and SDSU Extension Range Specialist.
