Women's contribution to rural life celebrated internationally today
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The United Nations' International Day of Rural Women takes place today, celebrating women all over the world who live and work in rural areas.
In Scotland, women’s contribution to rural life is often overlooked, according to the rural network Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups.
Lianne MacLennan, national coordinator of Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups, said: “Women in rural areas are increasingly active in all kinds of traditionally male-dominated careers with it now no longer being a surprise to see women in these roles.
"In addition they are undertaking a wide range of unpaid work and services which enable rural communities to survive and thrive. The mental strength and versatility of these women is worth celebrating.”
Women account for a substantial proportion of Scotland’s rural labour force. Their roles can vary from providing informal and seasonal work to making a significant contribution to agricultural production and natural resource management or running their own business.
Lianne continued: “Many women have a major role now within the rural economy, for example assisting in meeting the challenges of sustainable food production and others who are entrepreneurs creating businesses that support rural jobs.”
Mary Bowman is a case in point. As part of Bidwells’ rural team in Inverness-shire, she provides advice on renewable energy projects and estate management.
Mary began her professional life working as a deer stalking ghillie in Ardnamurchan, trained as a gamekeeper and then studied rural business management.
She said: “Opportunities for women in rural businesses have increased in recent years and it’s now more accepted to choose a traditionally male profession.
“I think women play a huge role in rural life in a variety of ways and we are perhaps the ones driving the move towards sustainable development – both in terms of adopting sustainable lifestylesand choosing food that is locally produced. That is good for the environment and good for Scotland’s rural economy.”
Scotland’s regional moorland groups are supporting the UN International Day of Rural Women day on social media.
