Women's Participation and Experience of Landcare in Australia

ABSTRACT

With over 2,500 Landcare-type groups and 65,000 members involving almost 30% of the farming community, there is considerable evidence of program success in mobilizing community action. In this paper the authors focus on the impact of gender roles upon women's participation and experience of Landcare. Research confirmed that women are important and knowledgeable land managers, have a strong stewardship ethic and have played a vital role in the work and organization of Landcare groups. Despite optimistic claims by some participants, gender and social class had affected women's participation and experience of Landcare: many women were apprehensive about joining, men appeared reluctant to share decision making power and women often supported Landcare participation by men partners.