Just as weeds will eventually become a topic of conversation in any room of farmers, so will labor. The cost, quality, availability, and consistency of good farm labor is a glaring issue in most farming operations. It’s not an indictment on the individuals, but it’s really hard to make the investment into labor truly profitable. Chris and Jenny knew a bit about the H-2A program and the incredible results of the labor but thought it was more geared towards large, commercial farms. After doing some more research they reached out to an H-2A specialist at AgWorks and másLabor and soon came to realize that it was possible to get a contract together for two seasonal H-2A employees. By working with their agent, Chris and Jenny put a plan in place and executed all the necessary steps to become eligible H-2A employers. In 2023, their two new employees arrived and exceeded all expectations. Their entire outlook on the future of the farm changed drastically. They were able to arrange contracts for the same two employees back at the farm again for the 2024 season. In addition, the employees referenced their cousin, and a contract was set up for him to join their team. H2A employees must be paid a special rate of pay, provided safe and clean housing, and guaranteed a certain number of work hours. Additionally, they have rights related to transportation, wages, and other protections.
After the farm tour, the group gathered for lunch in the wash pack house. During lunch Chris and Jenny took questions from attendees about H2A employment and labor management. Details were provided on housing, transportation, labor costs, contract processes, and working relationships with AgWorks. Chris had high praise for the new farm employees. Even though there’s a language barrier, as long as the task is taught clearly and the expectations are laid out, the job is done right. The employees were professional, did not require constant micro-management, worked with intuition, took initiative, and often requested more hours.
Once the farmer Q&A wrapped, a representative from AgWorks presented for the group.
AgWorks and másLabor Services
As an H-2A agency with 20+ years of experience and employees with a background in labor and agricultural services, AgWorks, along with másLabor, help farm employers in all 50 states utilize the H-2A system. By having dedicated specialists and a support team for each farm, they are able to understand the unique needs and demands of the operation and navigate the complex government H-2 process. As a compliance-based agent, the services do not stop once workers arrive. AgWorks will help with required government notifications, unforeseen circumstances that may impact the season, and government requests associated with audits and investigations.
A user-friendly communication system breaks up the program requirements into smaller pieces and relays information that clients need one step at a time. AgWorks coordinates with competent and ethical worker facilitators who provide comprehensive services related to the recruitment and coordination of international workers. The presentation finished with Q&A and networking before concluding the field day.
