The People Who Power Idaho Agriculture
From seasonal fieldwork to year-round dairy operations, Idaho’s farms depend on a reliable workforce that is increasingly difficult to recruit and retain.
- Labor Demand: Dairy, potato, onion, and orchard operations have the highest seasonal and year-round labor needs.
- H-2A Program: Many employers use the H-2A temporary agricultural worker visa, though the process is costly and complex.
- Workforce Housing: Affordable housing in rural areas is a growing barrier to labor recruitment.
- Wages and Competition: Agricultural employers compete with construction, logistics, and other sectors for workers.
- Automation: Some operations are investing in automation and robotics to offset labor shortages.
Idaho Farmers advocates for practical, workable labor policies that recognize agriculture’s unique workforce needs.