Nevada farmer Jeannie Damonte, owner of Sterling Farms Nevada, recently took part in a panel discussion hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome.

Damonte was the sole U.S. farmer representative on a panel of women farmers and agricultural experts from across the globe addressing key challenges faced by women in agriculture, including limited access to land rights, training and climate-smart technologies.

The panel discussion on Sept. 30 was part of the lead-up to the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF) 2026, as designated by the United Nations General Assembly. The declaration highlights the key role women play in global food security and sustainable development.

“It’s an honor to represent not just Nevada, but all U.S. women farmers,” said Jeannie Damonte. “Programs like the Women’s Farm2Food Accelerator, led by the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA), National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Foundation, and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), are providing women with the tools and resources they need to succeed.”

Damonte shared the challenges she faces as a women farmer and called for more support and resources for women in agriculture. The panel also discussed the role women play in farming and how global efforts can build support for IYWF 2026.

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IYWF 2026 will focus on closing the gender gap in agriculture, improving women's access to resources, and addressing hunger, poverty and climate change.

“We are proud to have Jeannie Damonte represent us,” said NDA Director J.J. Goicoechea. “Women are underrepresented in the agriculture industry. By providing women farmers with resources, we not only strengthen our local communities, but we also promote diversity in agriculture.”

Source: Nevada Department of Agriculture