UNDERSTANDING AND ADDRESSING AGRICULTURAL LABOR CHALLENGES IN THE UNITED STATES

Agricultural workers are a critical part of the United States economy, and their efforts enable American consumers to maintain access to a stable and affordable source of domestically produced food. However, recent research reveals that the farm labor supply is declining and that farm labor shortages have become a chronic problem. We will hold a one-day, in-person conference at Michigan State University to convene the nation's leading farm labor experts to disseminate research findings, connect farm employer and employee groups with government and industry resources and information, and facilitate an open and civil discussion about potential solutions to farm labor issues with a diverse group of stakeholders. The conference will host a keynote speaker from a major national farm employer group and three speaker panels (farm labor economists, agricultural industry stakeholders, and government) to provide a broad scope of viewpoints and information.We will draft a report summarizing the findings of the conference that will be posted online and made available to the public.