Our work is relational, rooted, and deeply intentional. These are the values that shape everything we do, from the spaces we create to the relationships we build, and beyond.

In 2016, hearing the collective call from women seeking support in their work in agriculture, Elaine Patarini of Paicines Ranch and Wendy Millet of TomKat Ranch responded by gathering women on the land to connect with one another and build community within an industry that has historically sidelined and withheld resources from female-identifying folks. At least 26 women attended that first Circle. Elaine and Wendy continued hosting facilitated Circles annually for the following six years.

Attending one of these Circles inspired Amber Smith to host a gathering in Montana, bringing together a new group of women in a new location.The event had a palpable energy, and the calls for more continued to grow. It became evident that Women in Ranching needed a larger platform with more resources and structure to expand effectively.

In June of 2018, Women in Ranching became a program of Western Landowners Alliance, where it could grow across the West. For four years under the guidance of Amber Smith and Hallie Mahowald, WIR gained exposure to a greater diversity of folks enthusiastic about hosting gatherings and becoming involved — growing a wider breadth of women seeking community in their work on the land.

In 2022, Women in Ranching became its own entity. Its own nonprofit.

"Lesli Allison took a chance on us and gave me the freedom to take Women in Ranching in the direction it needed to grow and to continue supporting women on the land, whatever that might look like." — Amber Smith, Executive Director

With gratitude, we thank the many people, ranches, and organizations who have shown such generosity, care, and trust. You have all played an integral role in moving WIR forward.

Today, we continue to grow and evolve, envisioning a future where women lead the transformation of agriculture while thriving within a supportive environment. By fostering global connections, offering innovative education, and creating spaces for growth, we help women build financial security, shape impactful policies, and inspire future generations.

Women In Ranching envisions a future where women lead the transformation of agriculture and communities, while thriving within a supportive environment. Through women-centered power, we amplify voices, steward the land with care, and cultivate resilience. By fostering global connections, offering innovative education, and creating spaces for growth, we help women build financial security, shape impactful policies, and inspire future generations. Together, we create a legacy of leadership, reciprocity, and sustainability that elevates diverse voices and deepens connections between women and the land.

In 2024, we came together with members of our board, staff and contract team to develop a 10 year Strategic Plan, with the help of Lesley and Paul Kabotie of Indigenous Collaboration. The ideas are bold, the path is not simple, but we are committed to this work.

WIR believes that women from diverse backgrounds, experiences, cultures, and ages can create transformative change, together. This commitment requires navigating complex social dynamics with empathy, courage, and profound humility, while not losing sight of the work that needs to be done. 

This work is generational. Even when the trail is hard to see or has been washed out, we remain determined to see it outlive us. It is beautiful, and it is hard. We will make mistakes along the way, and when we do, we will lead with transparency and open conversation. Our commitment to this mission does not waver.