Category: Labor
Farm labor summer update: H-2A continues record climb
Total H-2A job certifications are up 20% in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. The program remains on pace for record usage.
2026 FGN Labor Survey: Growers turn to H-2A, automation to fill workforce gaps
A deep dive into grower-sourced data reveals labor shortages and major cost increases, H-2A program dependence and automation upside.
Ag Labor Review: When Rural America loses its seat at the table, we all pay a price
Farmers must engage with stakeholders early, speak clearly and connect field to grocery store shelf
The leadership gap in specialty crop farming: Meet the program working to close it
Find out about a program helping farm supervisors learn to lead people, not just manage harvests and operations.
Long awaited SAWA labor reform drops, H-2A and immigration debate continues
The bill would overhaul the H-2A guest worker program while dividing agricultural organizations and immigration advocates over its approach to workforce reform.
Michigan State Extension: AEWR flexibility saved growers $33 million
Extension experts find most H-2A positions were offered at the Skill Level I wage rate, resulting in substantially lower wage offers.
New tech alert: HarvestReplay uses labor data and audio podcasts to improve specialty crop management
Learn about an innovative operational intelligence platform created exclusively for specialty crop growers.
SAWA ag labor reform supporters can voice opinions online
U.S. House Agriculture Committee chair Glenn Thompson has released details for the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act and is working to secure House cosponsors before its introduction in late June.
Ag labor groups applaud SAWA proposal, urge its passing
Learn why the coalition believes the legislation addresses many of the workforce challenges that have threatened the domestic fruit, vegetable, horticulture, nursery and other labor-intensive agricultural sectors.
Federal court upholds enforcement of new AEWR wage rule
A federal court denied an effort to block the revised AEWR wage rule for H-2A workers, allowing the labor regulation to remain active.
Rising labor, volatile markets: The cost disconnect growers can’t control
NCAE head John Hollay says It’s time for farm labor policy that better aligns wages with market realities.
Think your good boy (or girl) is the best? Nominations open for 2027 Farm Dog of the Year
The competition recognizes farm dogs that support agricultural operations and includes cash prizes. Learn how to enter and review eligibility requirements.
Ag Labor Review: Why political insurance, engagement today protects agriculture tomorrow
Learn how consistent community engagement can take your ag advocacy to higher levels.
Farm Bureau study: H‐2A use hits record levels
The latest ag labor data highlights ongoing challenges in finding domestic workers. Get updated insights into H-2 program usage.
Feeding the Economy report highlights $10.4T impact of U.S. ag
The 2026 Feeding the Economy report shows how the U.S. food and ag sector drives a $10.4T economy. Explore key report insights now.
Take FGN’s 2026 Labor Survey
FGN has launched its 2026 Ag Labor Survey to track workforce trends and challenges. Take the survey and share your farm’s labor experience.
Ag Wage Reform Coalition urges Congress to make AEWR rule permanent
Farm groups urge Congress to codify the AEWR interim rule and provide wage stability. Learn what permanent reform could mean for growers.