Labor
Keeping Track of Changes
You might have noticed some changes in the last couple of issues. First of all, VGN (and FGN) has a new assistant editor, Derrek Sigler. He introduced himself in last month's Editor's Letter. We're also... more »
Michigan Passes Migrant Housing Inspection Fee
Michigan growers who plan to house five or more migrant laborers on their land will have a new fee to pay this year. State House of Representatives bill 5657, introduced by Rep. John Espinoza, imposes... more »
Florida Tomato Growers Willing to Pay Pickers More
In a move to address wage and accountability issues for Florida tomato pickers, the Florida Tomato Growers Exchange (FTGE) has reversed a long-standing ban on wage increases for pickers through contributions from retail and restaurant... more »
Despite Dire Predictions, State Farm Jobs Aren’t Disappearing
When California Sen. Dianne Feinstein drafted legislation that would weaken endangered species protections to deliver more water to San Joaquin Valley farms, her rationale was jobs. Los Angeles Times Click here to read the rest... more »
Florida Growers Group Changes Stance on Tomato Pickers’ Pay
In a major reversal, a powerful Florida agricultural group will now let its tomato-grower members distribute to workers extra wages contributed by buyers such as grocers and fast-food companies. Ft. Myers News-Press Click here to... more »
Tomato Growers Agree to System to Boost Pickers’ Pay
Florida's tomato growers have decided to do their part to pass on increased wages to the migrant workers who pick the tomatoes. St. Petersburg Times Click here to read the rest of the story. more »
Ag can Cure Our Woes
As I watch our government blunder, giving away billions of dollars to banks, special interest groups and foreign governments and arguing over health care reform, it occurred to me that agriculture has totally lost its... more »
In the Fields: Visas Help Build Labor Pool
Every season Yuma-area harvesting and produce-packing companies worry whether they will have enough hands to harvest their valuable crops of fruits and vegetables. Yuma Sun Click here to read the rest of the story. more »
Has Peruvian Asparagus Peaked?
Four years ago, Peruvian asparagus growers were feeling pretty confident -- and for good reason. Their industry had grown exponentially since 1991, when Peruvian asparagus was granted tariff-free access to the U.S. market. The U.S.... more »
Great Recession Effects Could Linger for Decades
We may be just beginning to emerge from a really big, but "normal," recession. It's "normal" for the circumstances, but this recession is "abnormal" in that its effects are likely to linger for years and... more »
Current Issue
Tech allows growers to ‘eavesdrop’ on insects
Southwest Florida’s Worden Farm manages challenges
Pennsylvania Vegetable Growers Association says farewell to leader
Southeast Regional Show recognizes leaders
Veg Connections: Biopesticides and beneficial insects
Business: Why do most succession plans fail?
60 years of advocating for agricultural employers
Keeping CSA members engaged and loyal
see all current issue »
