MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County Fair and Event Center is accepting nominations for a new recognition program honoring women who have made significant contributions to agriculture in Monterey County and the Salinas Valley.
The program coincides with the designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer by the California Department of Food and Agriculture and the United Nations.
As part of the 2026 Monterey County Fair, themed “Cowboy Boots and Coastal Roots,” selected honorees will be recognized during an International Year of the Woman Farmer reception Sept. 5 at the fairgrounds. The event will include recognition remarks, media opportunities and a community celebration.
Honorees also will be featured in a special agricultural exhibit during fair week, highlighting their accomplishments through profiles, photographs and storytelling displays.
“Women have long played a vital role in shaping Monterey County agriculture, from the fields and farms to innovation, leadership and community advocacy,” said Kelly Violini-Rodoni, CEO of the Monterey County Fair and Event Center. “This program is an opportunity to recognize those contributions while inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders.”
The fair is seeking nominations for women involved in farming, ranching, agricultural education, ag technology, sustainability, research, labor leadership and community service.
Nominations must be submitted by Aug. 1 using the online form at tinyurl.com/32du5fjr.
