By Maggie Edwards  

Nikki Dyess, Lisa Lake and Karah Skinner glide through life with grit and grace. Their heart and hustle as mothers, wives, farmers and Christians shine whether in the pasture or in the kitchen feeding their families. 

“I think women have always been in agriculture,” said Skinner, who raises cattle in Cleburne County with husband Kaleb and their children. “Women have always been involved. Farming began with a family unit and a home. That didn’t happen without a husband and wife together.”

Skinner is a modern pioneer for women rooted in agriculture. She entered the industry 10 years ago. Now, she shares stories about Rock House Farms and her experiences as a mom on social media. She’s also the first female president of the Cleburne County Farmers Federation (CCFF). 

“When someone asks me what I do, I tell them I am a farmer,” Skinner said. “When I was selected as CCFF president, I felt so giddy. It’s an honor. I hope it’s a testament to my hard work and encourages other females to serve.” 

The act of service comes naturally to ladies like Lake of Cullman County. She and husband Steve raised three children on their poultry and cattle farm in Battleground.

“I like trying to help things move forward,” said Lake, who serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation State Women’s Leadership Committee. “Being on a committee is another way of helping out. It’s about giving back, being a leader and inspiring others to do the same.” 

Lake is a strong advocate for agriculture. If not found in her kitchen cooking Sunday lunch for family after church or helping Steve on the farm, she’s out sharing agriculture with local students.

“I want kids to understand it,” Lake said. “It’s important they know of the jobs available for them in agriculture. I hope they see it takes hard work. I strive to show them that if you enjoy it, it doesn’t always feel like work.” 

As a woman in agriculture, Lake has a profound passion for supporting Steve. Lake drove a school bus for 32 years to help sustain the family while ensuring flexible hours to complete farm chores. 

“Men and women working together just makes the farm better,” Lake said. “Women are nurturing and have a different outlook on caring for things. Women in the Bible were supporters, helpers and leaders in homes and communities. That’s what we are today, too.” 

Family and community drive Dyess’ involvement in agriculture in Geneva County. 

“To me, agriculture is special because it’s producing food and fiber,” said Dyess, who raises her sons alongside husband Patrick on a cow-calf operation. “Ag produces community needs, but by being involved, you feel like you are contributing to that community. For us, that’s beef. It’s the best way to raise a family.”

Dyess and her family value stewardship. 

“Being a woman in agriculture is understanding our role in family and community — and being able to steward the Lord’s creation,” said Dyess, the Geneva County Extension coordinator and Farm-City Committee chair. “We make our family decisions based on scripture and our biblical worldview.” 

Dyess is a trailblazer, too. She helps lead numerous youth organizations in Geneva County. 

“There is a disconnect between how we get food and how it’s produced,” Dyess said. “People don’t understand where our food comes from. It’s our job to help teach community members. My job is to see a need in the community and work to bring solutions.” 

No matter the role, women are vital on the farm, Skinner added. 

“As a mother, one of the most important places you can be is with your children,” Skinner said. “Farming gives us the opportunity to grow and learn together. I realize now how big of a blessing it is to raise kids on the farm and spend time as a family. On the farm, we see the goodness of God in the highs and lows.”