A meeting of farm industry leaders to discuss a robust labor workforce for the state’s farm businesses.

When: Tuesday, March 31, Noon (with lunch) to 2 p.m.  Where: Extension Building 3500 University Ave, Madison. Who: Farm industry leaders interested in learning and discussing labor issues facing Wisconsin farm businesses.

Wisconsin farm businesses compete in a very tight labor market, identified as a primary challenge to the future of
farm businesses. Research shows most farms struggle with adequate processes for employee management, particularly ongoing training that develops employee career paths and creates safe workplaces, critical components that motivate employees of the future workforce. For decades, with fewer applicants for farm jobs, Wisconsin farmers have relied significantly on immigrant workers, who have now become a less reliable source of employees. Farms often look to automation as a means to increase efficiency, alleviate reliance on labor, and reduce risks, but find new workforce challenges. Advances in technology have increased efficiency and improved safety on farms. However, the net benefits of automation are a function of many factors, and farmers must carefully assess investments relative to capacity to maximize labor savings.

Extension intends to catalyze the conversation, and participants will share and learn of the capacity in Wisconsin to address challenges and, potentially, identify opportunities for collaboration in ways that will increase impacts for Wisconsin farm businesses. Funding for this meeting is provided by a grant and will be limited to 25 participants. To participate, please email: farms@extension.wisc.edu

Agenda: Tuesday, March 31st, 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.

• Noon: Welcome and buffet lunch.
• 12:15: “Situational Analysis” Overview of data and current research and outreach efforts; presented by John Shutske, Professor in Biological Systems Engineering and Extension Agricultural Safety & Health Specialist, and Hernando Duarte, Extension Farm Labor Outreach Specialist.
• 1:15 Discussion of situation and Capacity in Wisconsin to address labor challenges – what are the existing efforts to address these issues? (all)
• 1:45 Discussion of Next steps: Where to from here to achieve a robust farm labor workforce for Wisconsin farm businesses. (all)
• 2:00 Adjourn

Meeting follow-up: Map pathways to achieving a robust farm labor workforce based on the existing efforts/capacity described; discuss future opportunities and examples from other states.

This meeting is supported by a grant from the North Central Regional Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) program.