As the world recognizes 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF), U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (USRSB) is turning the spotlight on the women shaping agriculture every day here in the U.S. From innovative land management strategies to raising livestock with care and precision, women are vital contributors to our food systems and communities.
With a passion for the industry, Debbie Lyons-Blythe advocates for environmental stewardship, succession planning, family operations and keeping grazing lands viable for future generations. As co-owner of Blythe Family Farms in White City, Kan., Lyons-Blythe combines hands-on ranching with visionary leadership.
A Life Rooted in Ranching
Lyons-Blythe’s story begins on Lyons Angus Ranch south of Manhattan, Kan. Growing up, she and her sister learned cattle care knows no gender. They worked alongside their mother, Jan Lyons, and showed Angus heifers across the U.S. in the National Junior Angus Association — building lifelong connections and sharpening their skills in livestock management.
After marrying Duane Blythe in 1989, she brought her cows to her husband’s family farm, starting a new chapter that blended two legacies. Today, her five grown children remain involved in the operation. Three sons work full time on the ranch, two daughters remain co-owners and the third generation is sure to continue the family tradition.
Leadership, Learning and Legacy
Lyons-Blythe’s leadership extends far beyond feeding and caring for cattle. A proud example of her leadership is her long-standing commitment to advocacy. She has been active at the local, state and national levels, working alongside organizations and fellow producers to help shape policies and conversations that impact the industry.
Her noteworthy achievements are in abundance, which is a reflection of her strong character and dedication.
While the list extends well beyond this, these are just a few accolades and leadership highlights:
- Past chair of the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (USRSB) from 2022 to 2023
- Founding member of USRSB and helping shape the organization from its earliest days
- USRSB panelist at NYC Climate Week
- 2022 Certified Angus Beef Progressive Partner Award (Blythe Family Farms)
- 2012 America’s Farmers Mom of the Year, awarded by Monsanto
- Board leader on the Kansas Livestock Association and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Women in Agriculture: Then and Now
Reflecting on her career, Lyons-Blythe has seen significant change in the role of women in farming and ranching.
“When I was a kid, women couldn’t even get their own bank loan without a husband’s signature,” she recalls.
Today, she notes, women are recognized as vital partners and leaders, making decisions alongside men and taking on leadership roles across operations and organizations.
Her advice to young women considering agriculture?
“Do the work. Don’t worry about being a woman. The cows need fed, the hay needs cut, the job needs done. It does not matter whether you are a guy or a gal,” she shares.
Lessons from the Land
Farming and ranching come with constant challenges, from unpredictable weather to market shifts, but Debbie finds motivation in family, teamwork and the land itself. She stresses the importance of passing down values as well as skills.
“Every day on a ranch is busy, but there are ways to include the entire family – grandkids, too – in the daily work,” she says.
Her hope for the future? A new generation of ranchers who blend respect for tradition with openness to technology, efficiency and sustainability.
“The future of the Blythe Family Farms is in excellent hands,” she notes. “I believe the entire farming and ranching industries are as well.”
A Legacy in Action
Lyons-Blythe’s story is a reminder that women in agriculture are not only caretakers of the land and animals, but they are leaders, innovators and role models. Her legacy at Blythe Family Farms is demonstrated through collaboration, resilience and mentorship, showing young women and families across the U.S. that all have a place at every table in agriculture.
You can learn more about Lyons-Blythe’s advocacy efforts on her personal blog Kids, Cows and Grass.
2026 is the year to celebrate all the women shaping our food systems. Stories like Lyons-Blythe’s remind us farming is more than a job. It’s a legacy, a community and a calling.
