Women's Agricultural Network Blog

Here’s a good read on the essentials of social marketing. It really is all about the customer…hey, hasn’t it always been all about the customer? So maybe nothing much has changed. Check out the Social Marketing Playbook http://www.scribd.com/doc/16256776/360i-Social-Marketing-Playbook
360i Social Marketing Playbook

I hate to sound like your mother but…I’m concerned about your skin. It’s the largest organ in the human body and your skin would appreciate a little care and kindness. Especially during these long working days in the sun.
Wear a waterproof/sweatproof sunblock and remember to reapply it throughout the day. Don’t forget the back of your neck and your ears (especially right after a haircut when skin is newly exposed). And, you know this already, but just a reminder…just because it’s a hazy day does not mean that the damaging UV rays aren’t finding you.
Wear a broad-brimmed hat while you are in the field. Select something that will shade both your face and the back of your neck.

Wear light-weight clothing with long sleeves and pants keeping as much skin as possible covered. When selecting clothing however be sure to avoid anything too loose that could get caught in equipment.
Invest in a good pair of sunglasses. Your eyes can be damaged by the sun too!
Plan activities that will keep you out of the direct sunlight during the peak of the day 11- 1.
Whenever possible have your equipment fitted with a sunshade.
Talk with all employees about the importance of protection from UV rays. Skin damage is cumulative so a little sun damage now can result in problems down the road.
Need some more incentive? Check out this slide show that clearly shows different types of sun-related skin damage check out a WebMD slideshowSun-damaged Skin

How many times have you had to make some modification to a common tool or piece of equipment just so that you could use it? How many times have you said, “would it be so hard for someone to make a _____ that would fit me“?
Well, it’s time for you to be heard! Join the Women’s Agricultural Network along with Ann Adams and Liz Brensinger of Green Heron Tools to share your ideas for how manufacturers and engineers could design farm equipment, hand tools and protective gear that would work better for women.
These focus groups are part of a research project to determine what works and what doesn’t work for women farmers when it comes to farm equipment, hand tools, personal protective gear.

Thursday, June 4 6:30—8:30
UVM Extension Office, Berlin, Vermont
Friday, June 5 11:30—1:30
Burlington, Vermont
Want to join us? Call 802-223-2389 x13 or email Mary.Peabody@uvm.edu