MANHATTAN, Kansas — In a first-of-its-kind effort highlighting the growing role of women in the cattle industry, the Kansas Department of Agriculture partnered with the New Mexico Department of Agriculture to host an all-women delegation of six cattle producers from Chihuahua, Mexico, for a multi-state trade mission focused on U.S. beef cattle genetics. The program provided participants with opportunities to explore U.S. beef cattle genetics, strengthen industry relationships, and identify potential suppliers for future purchases.
Women play an increasingly important role in agriculture, contributing significantly to farm and ranch operations worldwide, yet they remain underrepresented in international trade missions and leadership opportunities in the livestock sector. This mission, held during the International Year of the Woman Farmer, underscores the expanding leadership and influence of women in agriculture across borders.
The delegation represented Mujeres Ganaderas de México (MUGAM; “Cattlewomen of Mexico”) and traveled through New Mexico and Kansas the first week of March to strengthen commercial relationships and explore opportunities to import U.S. beef genetics. The mission was made possible through the departments’ membership in U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Inc., with funding support from the USDA Market Access Program.
In Kansas, the group continued with visits to Jensen Ranch’s annual bull sale, Fink Beef Genetics, and Downey Ranch Inc., where they observed a range of breeding programs and management approaches. Discussions focused on genetic selection, herd performance, and export considerations, with several participants initiating follow-up conversations related to potential semen purchases. The delegation also attended Kansas State University’s Stockmen’s Dinner and Cattlemen’s Day, gaining exposure to current research, market trends, and industry networking opportunities.
While in New Mexico, where the group toured cattle ranches, attended a bull sale, and met with industry leaders from the New Mexico Beef Council and the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, as well as producers from across the region.
Throughout the mission, participants exchanged knowledge on cattle production practices and evaluated how U.S. genetics could add value to their operations. The experience also created space for relationship-building among women in agriculture, including a networking session with Kansas Cattlewomen focused on leadership and organizational development.
“Mexico is an important market for beef genetics, and this visit expanded those connections to support long-term growth opportunities for Kansas livestock producers,” said Secretary Mike Beam. “We appreciate our partnership with USLGE as well as with our counterparts at the New Mexico Department of Agriculture.”
For more information, contact KDA International Trade Director Katheryn Wessel at Katheryn.Wessel@ks.gov or 785-564-7466, or NMDA Marketing Specialist Juan Sanchez at jsanchez@nmda.nmsu.edu or 575-339-5047.
