Growing up on a New Jersey farm, sisters Rebekah Alstede Modery and Sarah Alstede developed a strong connection to the family business. Rebekah, with a double major in agricultural business and sustainable agricultural production, graduated from Delaware Valley University and decided to continue her career at Alstede Farms. Sarah, on the other hand, pursued an associate degree in animal science with a focus on equine studies at Centenary University. Now, at 24 and 22 years old respectively, the sisters have become co-owners of Alstede Farms, alongside their father and stepmother, making the farm majority women-owned.
Although women have always played a crucial role in agriculture, they are often underrepresented in the field. The latest Census of Agriculture indicates that about 1.22 million female producers were involved in farming in 2022, accounting for 36% of all producers. However, women are increasingly taking on key decision-making roles, with 78% involved in day-to-day decisions and 71% in record-keeping and financial management. As younger women like Rebekah and Sarah step into leadership positions, they must be prepared to navigate a range of financial challenges.
The agricultural landscape in the U.S. has been characterized by farm consolidation and rising debt levels. While the total number of producers has remained relatively stable, there was a 7% decline in the number of farms from 2017 to 2022. The average farm size has increased by 5% to 463 acres per farm, indicating a trend towards larger operations. Despite a decline in the percentage of farms carrying debt, high interest rates have made it more expensive for farms to borrow, creating liquidity challenges.
In addition to financial challenges, farmers are increasingly grappling with the impacts of climate change. Changing temperatures and rainfall patterns have made it more difficult to predict and respond to weather extremes. Frost, freezes, flooding, drought, and pest pressures are all exacerbated by climate variability, leading to increased financial demands on farmers. For example, Alstede Farms experienced a frost-freeze period in mid-March, threatening the life of new blooms and putting early crops at risk.
To mitigate the impacts of climate change, farmers must invest in risk management tools and technologies. From double layer row covers to specialized equipment like wind machines for frost protection, these investments can be capital-intensive but essential for protecting crops. However, even with these measures in place, some risks are unavoidable. For instance, Alstede Farms lost eight busy weekends in the fall due to rain, resulting in significant financial losses.
Despite the challenges they face, female farmers like Rebekah and Sarah are resilient and determined to overcome obstacles. Drawing on their family’s experience of dealing with hardships, they are prepared to navigate the uncertainties of farming. With their passion for agriculture and commitment to sustainability, the Alstede sisters are well-equipped to lead Alstede Farms into the future, despite the financial and climate-related challenges ahead.