NMDA launches statewide search for agriculture’s 2026 matriarchs

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The New Mexico Department of Agriculture is calling on residents to help recognize the women who’ve shaped the state’s farming and ranching legacy.

A new campaign — Matriarchs of New Mexico Agriculture — aims to spotlight the leadership, resilience and generational impact of women who’ve dedicated their lives to agriculture. Nominations for the 2026 honoree class are now open and will be accepted through Friday, June 20 at midnight.

The effort celebrates women whose influence reaches beyond their own fields or families — those who have mentored others, advocated for the industry and led with strength and care. Honorees may be living or nominated posthumously.

“Matriarchs are often the backbone of our agricultural communities,” said New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte. “These women represent wisdom, perseverance and deep commitment to the land and the people it feeds.”

Witte said the 2025 class — which includes two women who helped inspire the campaign — will be formally recognized this fall.

The campaign is set to grow in 2026, with television and digital ads launching statewide in January. The rollout coincides with the United Nations’ International Year of the Woman Farmer — a global effort to recognize women’s contributions to food systems and rural communities.

Nomination forms, campaign materials and additional details are available at elevateNMag.com.

NMDA encourages families, neighbors and agriculture professionals across the state to lift up the women who’ve helped sustain New Mexico’s farming heritage.

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