By Larissa Moore, GHS Student Intern

Governor Janet Mills has officially declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer in Maine. Over time, women have transitioned from being overworked dairy farmers or occasional laborers, to serving major leadership roles in well-known farms. The town of Gorham is home to over a dozen operational farms, many of which have women playing a crucial role.

Ever since Gorham was founded in 1736, farming has been an integral part of the town due to the naturally good soil and the nearby Presumpscot River. Over the course of history, women have been fundamental in the success of local Gorham farms.

Orchard Ridge Farm, on Sebago Lake Road, is a testament to the hardworking women in agriculture. Owned by mother and daughter Mary Walker and Erica Gottshalk, Orchard Ridge Farm is a beloved local farm. They are known for their walking trails and their year-round farm market.

In early January this year, the farm suffered a terrible fire that originated from the family’s house. This called for much perseverance and motivation to repair the damages in order to keep their farm up and going.

After less than a week, the farm reopened due to the dedication of the owners and community support. They weren’t willing to let a bump in the road ruin their years of success. This goes to show how passionate Gottshalk and Walker are about their farm.

Farming is more than a job to the Gottshalks; it represents freedom and “love of the land we live on,” Erica Gottshalk explained. The declaration of the International Year of the Woman Farmer is succeeding at giving women in agriculture the acknowledgement they deserve. Gottshalk said,

“Women are tough, resilient, caring, and take working seriously. We have many incredible women in agriculture around the state. I’m proud to stand as one of them!”