Arkansas Women In Agriculture will host the first Annie’s Project Retreat in May at Heifer Ranch in Perryville, Ark.

During the retreat, participants will learn about business plans, legal liabilities, contracts and leases, estate planning, record-keeping, communication, insurance, federal programs, grants, marketing, financial statements, and much more.

The retreat will begin at 6 p.m. on May 6 and end around 6 p.m. on May 8.

“I’m very excited to be able to offer the educational components of Annie’s Project in a retreat format,” said Carrie Hirmer, ARWIA project director. “Agriculture is a wonderful yet often stressful and trying way of life. With that in mind, we will not only be offering the traditional workshop topics, but also have some fun activities planned.”

Those attending will receive an Annie’s Project binder, their own copy of Quicken software, as well as many handouts and other materials.

The cost to attend the retreat is $50 per person and includes all meals, lodging and materials. A limited number of scholarships are available for those who would like to attend but cannot afford the registration fee.

Laptop computers will be available for participants to use during the retreat, allowing the opportunity for hands-on practice of what is being taught.

“I encourage all who are interested to attend as you will gain information to help you within your agricultural operation as well as have some time to really connect with other women and enjoy some much-needed R & R,” Hirmer said.

For a registration form and more information on Annie’s Project and/or ARWIA, go to the ARWIA Web site at http://www.arkansaswomeninag.com or contact Carrie Hirmer via e-mail at [email protected] or by phone at (870) 653-6258.

The program, conducted by ARWIA, is in partnership with the University Of Arkansas Division Of Agriculture and funded by a grant from the Southern Region Risk Management Education Center.

Arkansas Women in Agriculture is a private non-profit organization whose mission is to provide educational programming and a network of support for women involved in agriculture.