Kiera McCabe

Kiera McCabe, a Diné farmer and founder of Skoden Farm, is dedicated to growing traditional foods that nourish and sustain her community. As a beginner farmer with three years of hands-on field experience, her work is deeply rooted in who she is and where she comes from. Kiera recently graduated from Fort Lewis College with a Bachelors in Sociology and Human Services, alongside minors in Business Administration and Native American & Indigenous Studies and a certificate in Regenerative Food Systems. A massive turning point in her journey was participating in the 2024 Bidii Baby Foods Farmer-in-Rezidence program. This was an incredible opportunity that allowed her to learn, grow, and build the foundation for her farming operation. She now operates her 2.5 acre farm in Aztec, New Mexico and provides internship opportunities.

Plenary Panelelist

Preserving Heritage Crops and Livestock: A discussion with stewards in the Southwest
It takes many hands to keep the tradition of raising heritage crops and livestock going. More than food, crops and livestock that exist on the margins of commodities embody culture, biodiversity, and stewardship of a holistic approach to agriculture. In this panel discussion, hear from producers who are maintaining a place-based, sustainable agricultural practice by growing culturally relevant and ecologically resilient crops and livestock. Learn about how they navigate a premium market as a small-scale producer. Understand the challenges faced by those in both the early and later stages of their lives and careers as farmers and ranchers. And, get to know what makes some of the resilient heritage crops and livestock grown in the Southwest special.

Moderator: Mary-Charlotte Domandi
Panelists:
Kiera McCabe (Skoden Farms)
Sarah Jones (Jones Family Farm and the Rye Resurgence Project)
Tyrrell Tapaha (weaver and sheepherder)