California farmers face new regulations in 2026 from agritourism to wages
In California, the new year has ushered in a handful of new rules and regulations affecting agricultural operations throughout the state. Caleb Howard with AgAlert.com writes, “As of Jan. 1, there are new laws pertaining... more »
2026 vegetable industry outlook: How labor, technology and trade will shape the year ahead
With the dawn of the new year, America’s vegetable and leafy-green growers find themselves balancing steady consumer demand with rising operational pressures. The past year reinforced a familiar truth for the sector: while produce remains... more »
Ag Labor Review: Taking the reins
As the new year begins in our nation’s capital, some things never seem to change. With the election just 11 months away and unfinished business from last year still lingering, 2026 promises to be a... more »
H-2A wages: market vs. mandate
“The federal government implemented a social program that farmers and ranchers are required to run.” A friend of mine said something like that the other day, and I told her it was interesting to think... more »
Produce leader bemoans Mexican import impacts, requests seasonal safeguards
Mike Joyner, president, Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA), has expressed concerns about the impact of produce imports from Mexico under the current U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Joyner reports significant losses in sales, market share and... more »
Labor groups sue Trump administration to reverse H-2A wage cuts
The United Farm Workers of America (UFWA)and the United Farm Worker Foundation (UFWF) filed a lawsuit last week on behalf of 18 farm workers to reverse the Trump administration’s wage cut rule, according to a press... more »
Shifting labor landscape: Actions spark optimism for long-term reform
Several recent decisions affecting ag labor have industry insiders cautiously optimistic that the political landscape may be favorable for long-lasting reform. In early September, the USDA announced it was discontinuing a method of measuring farm... more »
Federal officials to speak at NCAE’s Ag Labor Forum
Leaders of two federal agencies that affect growers’ labor needs are scheduled to speak at the National Council of Agricultural Employers’ (NCAE) 2025 Ag Employer Labor Forum. U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer... more »
Labor Department to resume H-2A application processing
The U.S. Department of Labor will resume processing H-2A and H-2B applications, activity designated essential during the government shutdown. The National Potato Council (NPC) and the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) were among agricultural organizations... more »
NCAE ag labor forum sessions announced
The National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE) has announced the lineup of thought leaders, economists and ag labor legal experts for its “Eye of the Storm: Investigating the IFR for American Ag” session at its... more »
