By Sandra Matheson, DVM
Roots of Resilience was recently honored by the Washington Wildlife Recreation Coalition (WWRC) with the Forward Award at their annual Fall Celebration for the work of the New Cowgirl Camp. The WWRC is a nonprofit coalition of several hundred diverse groups as well as thousands of individuals. It supports recreation and conservation projects across the state of Washington.
The fall celebration is a community building and fundraising event celebration “bringing together hundreds of impassioned and inspired business leaders, politicians, community leaders, philanthropists, and partners. The Annual Fall Celebration recognizes the tireless work of great leaders who make sure that Washington’s outdoor spaces are thriving.
This event provides individuals and organizations from across the state a place to connect with elected officials and key players in the outdoor economy, to share their stories and ideas, and to build lasting relationships.”
The organization recently marked a milestone of 35 years.
The New Cowgirl Camp (NCC) is a five-day, immersive experience for women that combines classroom and hands-on learning in managing ecosystems with livestock. Beginning farmers, ranchers, and those exploring a career in regenerative agriculture gain the opportunity to learn about current, science-based management practices that will put their future farm or ranch business on a sustainable footing.
During the workshop, students explore the basics of grazing planning, ecosystem monitoring, low-stress livestock handling, and veterinary medicine with a celebratory, supportive group of women. Attendees walk away with a handle on what kind of future they are managing towards and how to take the next steps to achieve their farming and ranching goals.
One of our New Cowgirl Camp alumni, Emily Trabolsi, accepted the award in Seattle, WA, on behalf of Roots of Resilience. WWRC also presented a donation to further the work of NCC.
The New Cowgirl Camp will be held on June 25-29th, 2025, at the Lazy R Ranch, Cheney, WA. More details and registration may be found at New Cowgirl Camp — Roots of Resilience. We are exploring the possibility of additional dates and locations for 2025.
Sandra Matheson, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, is a lifelong farmer, educator, filmmaker, author, speaker, and retired veterinarian. She lives and ranches in Bellingham, Washington, where she runs a cow/calf operation and grass-fed beef and Yak business.