The United Nations declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer – a historic milestone recognizing the vital role women play in agriculture worldwide. California is home to one of the most diverse agricultural economies in the world, including an impressive number of women farmers who are running businesses, stewarding farmland, and shaping the future of agriculture.
Here at Talley Farms, we’re proud to work alongside so many women who are truly kicking ass in the agriculture sector! From blooming lavender fields to fruitful orchards, we partner with a wide variety of women farmers right here on the Central Coast.
Raven Smith of Gopher Glen and Avila Valley Barn has jumped right into the role of keeping the spirit of the farm visit alive. Whether she’s directing where different pumpkin varieties should be displayed or coordinating apple harvests, Raven has her hands in just about everything.
Gina Hambly of Hambly Farms is another standout. Alongside her husband, Milton, and their three kids, Gina has helped farm and curate an impressive lavender operation in the hills of San Miguel. She’s grown their family business into a one-of-a-kind destination, built on a foundation of locally grown.
One of the largest organic companies we work with, Creekside Organics, is women-owned and operated. Brenda Haught, President of Creekside, leads a dynamic team of women in sales who oversee the shipping and distribution of their products across California, Arizona, and Mexico.
And we’d be remiss if we didn’t highlight Megan Shanley of Shanley Farms and the impressive marketing efforts she’s brought to her family’s avocados and finger limes. Megan is carrying on the legacy of her father’s trademarked Morro Bay Grown Avocados while introducing fresh ideas of her own.
We are honored to work with these women and their companies, all of whom are trailblazing a path forward in California agriculture.
