Podcasts about h2a

In this week's Ag Tribes Report, Vance Crowe is joined by entrepreneur, farmer, and Iowa Corn Growers director Elliot Henderson for a fast-moving breakdown of four big stories shaping agriculture. They react to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins' media blitz and her tightly messaged take on trade, cattle, and screw worm—praising her talent while questioning how much of it reflects independent ag thinking. They unpack California's Prop 50 and what partisan redistricting could mean for rural voices in the nation's top ag state. They also look at the viral Danish claims linking cow deaths to the mandatory Bovear methane-reducing additive and the broader US–EU cultural and monetary incentives behind climate policy. Rounding out the news, they examine NYC's push for city-run grocery stores, the economic fear driving urban support, and the parallels Elliot sees for ag if subsidies and policy continue to distort markets. Then they run the Bitcoin Land Price Report (with land softening to ~$12.5K/acre in NE Iowa) and debate Bitcoin vs. land as a store of value. In the Peter Thiel Paradox, Elliot challenges ag's reliance on transfer payments, H-2A tweaks, and policies that wall off opportunity for new entrants—arguing for reform even when beneficiaries resist. For Worthy Adversary, he respects but disputes commentator Damian Mason's stance on property tax and policy incentives, warning that today's preferential treatments risk entrenching an aristocracy over working producers. They close with how to get involved in Iowa Corn, an invite to check out Elliot's Rush Hour Ag podcast, and a reminder to rate and review the show—plus a quick note on why Vance Crowe would trade Bitcoin for land when the numbers make sense.To support the show and buy Bitcoin use the link: https://river.com/invite?r=OAB5SKTP

This week's agriculture news covers everything from trade and tariffs to farmer sentiment and land values. The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments on the legality of tariffs imposed on nearly every U.S. trading partner during President Trump's administration. Meanwhile, updates continue on the China and U.S. trade deal and what it could mean for soybean growers. Despite the ongoing government shutdown, the U.S. Labor Department confirmed its Office of Foreign Labor Certification will resume processing H-2A agricultural labor applications. A new national coalition, Grow It Here, has also launched to spotlight the nation's farm labor shortage. Plus, we break down the latest farmer sentiment from the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer and the Rural Mainstreet Index. This week's interview features David Whitaker, auctioneer and real estate broker with Whitaker Marketing Group. He shares insight on late 2025 land values, generational buying and selling trends and how more land is making its way onto the market. Stay connected with us for more agriculture content on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, along with our weekly videos!

The National Potato Council is not pleased with the U.S.-Japan trade agreement reached last week, and the Department of Labor's updated shutdown plan confirms the processing of H-2A temporary labor applications will resume.

Georgia's farmers don't need data to know the weather has been dry recently, but the recent Drought Monitor report confirmed as much, and the Department of Labor's updated shutdown plan confirms the processing of H-2A temporary labor applications will resume.

The National Potato Council is not pleased with the U.S.-Japan trade agreement reached last week, and the Department of Labor's updated shutdown plan confirms the processing of H-2A temporary labor applications will resume.

American farms are in crisis. The federal government shutdown froze H-2A visa processing right when farmers need to prepare for planting season. At the same time, major changes to how farm worker wages are calculated are making everything more complicated.Immigration Nerds host Lauren Clarke talks with immigration attorney and agricultural labor expert L.J. D'Arrigo about what's happening to the farms that grow our food. As immigration enforcement ramps up and legal pathways get more complex, find out what's really at stake for American agriculture and the workers who feed our nation.GUEST: L.J. D'Arrigo, Partner, Harris Beach MurthaHOST: Lauren ClarkeNEWS NERD: Rob TaylorPRODUCER: Adam BelmarResource Links:Bloomberg: Agricultural Employers Rack Up Seasonal Worker Wins Under Trump: https://news.bloomberglaw.com/daily-labor-report/agricultural-employers-rack-up-seasonal-worker-wins-under-trumpUSCIS: H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-2a-temporary-agricultural-workers

*The U.S. is not ready to open the Mexican border for livestock imports.   *The U.S. Department of Labor is bringing employees back to work to process H2A guest worker program visas.  *The American Sheep Industry Association is asking for an investigation into lamb imports. *There are a couple of different growing seasons happening in the Texas panhandle.  *Texas farmers and ranchers are addressing issues important to agriculture.  *USDA is working to improve compensation for ranchers who are affected by predators.  *CEU programs are important for Texas farmers.  *Trace minerals are commonly deficient in beef cattle. 

In this episode of the Epigenetics Podcast, we talked with Vincent Pasque from KU Leuven about his work on the reprogramming of cell identity through epigenetic mechanisms, particularly during early development and cellular reprogramming. We begin by tracing Vincent's journey into biology, sparked by early childhood experiences in nature and meaningful encounters with inspiring teachers. His fascination with the complexities of biology crystallized during a pivotal moment while listening to a radio segment on epigenetics in the late '90s, which led him to pursue studies in genetics and biochemistry. This formative path brought him to leading institutions, including the prestigious lab of John Gurdon, where he explored the phenomenon of nuclear reprogramming. Vincent recounts his early experiments that led to the discovery of macro H2A as a barrier to reprogramming, emphasizing the core challenge of erasing somatic cell identity. As the conversation unfolds, Vincent introduces us to critical findings from his research. He shares how the inactive X chromosome serves as a compelling model to investigate epigenetic regulation, revealing that the dynamics of reprogramming and differentiation are far from simple reversals of development. He highlights the significant differences between male and female iPSCs and how X-linked genes influence DNA methylation and differentiation rates in these cells. The implications of these findings extend beyond developmental biology to inform our understanding of diseases, particularly cancer. Transitioning to his current work, Vincent describes pioneering advances in characterizing the chromatin-associated proteome during the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells. The surprising discovery of elevated histone modifications in naïve cells leads to intriguing questions about the barriers to cellular plasticity and the mechanisms by which cells resist alternative fate conversions. The potential applications of this research could reshape our approach to regenerative medicine and therapeutic interventions. References Pasque V, Gillich A, Garrett N, Gurdon JB. Histone variant macroH2A confers resistance to nuclear reprogramming. The EMBO Journal. 2011 May;30(12):2373-2387. DOI: 10.1038/emboj.2011.144. PMID: 21552206; PMCID: PMC3116279. Jullien, J., Miyamoto, K., Pasque, V., Allen, G. E., Bradshaw, C. R., Garrett, N. J., Halley-Stott, R. P., Kimura, H., Ohsumi, K., & Gurdon, J. B. (2014). Hierarchical Molecular Events Driven by Oocyte-Specific Factors Lead to Rapid and Extensive Reprogramming. Molecular Cell, 55(4), 524–536. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcel.2014.06.024 Pasque V, Tchieu J, Karnik R, et al. X chromosome reactivation dynamics reveal stages of reprogramming to pluripotency. Cell. 2014 Dec;159(7):1681-1697. DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2014.11.040. PMID: 25525883; PMCID: PMC4282187. Zijlmans DW, Talon I, Verhelst S, et al. Integrated multi-omics reveal polycomb repressive complex 2 restricts human trophoblast induction. Nature Cell Biology. 2022 Jun;24(6):858-871. DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00932-w. PMID: 35697783; PMCID: PMC9203278. Related Episodes The Discovery of Genomic Imprinting (Azim Surani) Gene Expression Control and Intricacies of X-chromosome Inactivation (Claire Rougeulle) Epigenetics and X-Inactivation (Edith Heard) Contact Epigenetics Podcast on Mastodon Epigenetics Podcast on Bluesky Dr. Stefan Dillinger on LinkedIn Active Motif on LinkedIn Active Motif on Bluesky Email: podcast@activemotif.com

Good news and bad news for some states when it comes to the wage rate changes by the Trump Administration.

Local contractors say they have enough local labor to detassel Nebraska's seed corn but they're losing work to migrant workers on H-2A visas. A 2024 Nebraska law attempted to increase transparency in detasseling labor practices.

What we're hearing across all sectors of agriculture is that having a reliable workforce remains a number one challenge today. Karen Gefvert, chief policy officer for Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and Voice of Milk, says it’s an issue the organization is deeply engaged in. In talking with Stephanie Hoff, Gefvert notes that this has been a 40-year battle. She says the current system doesn't work for dairy. Dairy farmers need an entry-level workforce. The only program that can address that is H2A, but dairy is prohibited from using it.Not much moisture in the latest forecast from Stu Muck. Temperatures remain on track for the last few days of October. Muck also notes a statewide FFA Foundation Auction that's happening now.Knowing a company's origins and roots can help explain how they do business. Pam Jahnke talks with Ashley Huhn about how the Steffes Group actually got started, and why they take pride in creating their own systems not just relying on third party services to handle business. Paid for by Steffes Group.Wisconsin dairy farmer, John Rosenow, has been a vocal proponent of immigration reform for decades. His dairy operation in the Waumandee Valley of western Wisconsin relies heavily on immigrant labor. Rosenow has joined a newly formed coalition called "Grow It Here" that's trying to advance meaningful immigration reform for agriculture. Rosenow says of his 18 full-time workers, 13 are from Mexico. Today's H2A visas don't work for dairy.The market's feeling more optimistic today after a weekend full of trade announcements out of SE Asia. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend tells Pam Jahnke that it's good news for corn, soybean meal, pork and beef. There's also still a buzz about potential trade developments with China. Still the gorilla in the room according to Heinberg.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers are looking forward to recent changes the Department of Labor made to the Adverse Effect Wage Rate and how it could impact their finances. So, any questions?

Southeast farmers could see major changes to labor costs under a new proposal from the Trump Administration aimed at revising the H-2A visa program, and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association expressed significant concerns about President Trump's plan to buy beef from Argentina.

Today Ryan has Sarah Taber, a small farmer and proprietor of the Farm to Taber YouTube channel, on to talk about just what is going on with American farming--the collapse in soybean exports, what farmers thought they would by voting for Trump, how he has made the H-2A visa program even more exploitative, why so many farmers are addicted to producing corn and soybeans, and more. Subscribe now to listen to the whole thing!

A membership meeting at Group Health Cooperative in Madison cheers a push for unionization with SEIU, Trump announces that some federal workers won't return after the government shutdown and American Federation of Government Employees members talk to Labor Radio about the White House onslaught against federal workers, as ICE deports farm workers the Trump administration says the answer to farm job loss is to lower the minimum wage paid to H2A visa holders and cut its housing subsidies, Wisconsin unions push for a bigger local worker stake in green infrastructure jobs, a Madison elder care resident talks to Labor Radio about the threat that immigration crackdowns will pose to elder care, Professor Tom Alter talks to Labor Radio about being fired by Texas State University and the support he is getting from his unions, and Madison will have a No Kings march supported by organized labor.

Wisconsin agriculture - agriculture and food production in general - doesn't work without workers. Wisconsin Congressman, Derrick Van Orden, has been spending time gathering stories that exemplify why foreign born workers remain a critical cog in getting things done. He says the message to him has been clear. Now Congress has to get things done when it comes to a legal system that farms and agribusinesses can work with to keep their operations functioning with foreign born laborers. Van Orden explains to Ben Jarboe the different options that he's proposing to revise existing H2A guidelines, and creating legal channels for employers to usher employees through the process. Van Orden's Agriculture Reform Act of 2025 holds some key elements to keeping food production in the U.S. moving. It'll be cloudy, with some rain - but nothing real measurable. That's the word from Stu Muck. Friday could potentially bring a little heavier rain to the state's farm fields. It's not just Wisconsin farmers that are in the midst of harvesting. Plenty of garden produce is being used and shared in neighborhoods these days. What are your plans for the rest? Kiley Allan provides a few tips for canning and freezing courtesy of Heather Quackenboss, UW-Extension Educator in LaCrosse County. Farmers for Free Trade brought its motorcade to Westby Wisconsin on Wednesday. Brian Kuehl, executive director of FFFT says they're planning to cover over 2500 miles on their journey from Nebraska to Washington, D.C. They're gathering farmers stories about what the international marketplace means to their farming operations and their futures. Strategies are critical right now for Wisconsin dairy operators. They're looking at a bleak picture for milk prices in 2026 as global production grows and product prices slip. Katie Burgess, dairy analyst with EverAg say using new insurance tools to protect the valuable dairy beef revenue is a critical component for next year that should be activated today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Part 1:We talk with Whitney Curry Wimbish, staff writer for The American Prospect.We discuss the growth of cypto investments in real estate. Small amounts allow individuals to participate in this market. There are no regulations for this type of investment, and the SEC, under Paul Atkins, is not exmining the 'hype' around these schemes. Growth in these financial instruments is expected to accelearte. Part 2:We talk with David Bacon, who writes about farm workers in the US.Changes instituted by Trump have cut the wages for H2A farm workers, and, for domestic farm workers by one third. This includes not only the wages themselves, but the costs previously shouldered by the growers. Growers now have lower costs, and will likely profit even more. 

Georgia Ag Commissioner Tyler Harper is praising the Trump Administration's proposed changes to the H-2A Visa Program that will save Georgia farmers millions in labor costs, and the administration won't move forward on financial assistance for producers until the government shutdown ends.

This week's agriculture news highlights the ongoing impacts of the federal government shutdown, positive updates in state ag policy, and conversations within the dairy industry. Agriculture headlines this week include the suspension of USDA reports due to the government shutdown, California's official approval of E15 fuel sales, updates on national biofuel plans and soybean tariffs, and how low Mississippi River levels could influence crop pricing. We also cover the latest CME/Purdue University Ag Economy Barometer results on farmer sentiment, a lawsuit moving forward that challenges USDA's electronic identification (EID) tag requirements, the new wage rate rule for the H-2A program now in effect and celebrations for both National Co-op Month and National Farmer's Day! Today's first interview is with Elizabeth De Vries-Dykstra and Bram DeVries of 4-D Ag Fashion and World discussing the state of the dairy industry and why high-visibility (HI-VES) workwear is becoming increasingly important for farms and insurance purposes. They also share insight into whether farmers are still investing in equipment and facility upgrades Another conversation on today's episode is with Suzanne Fanning, Chief Marketing Officer for Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. She highlights the state's checkoff latest campaign, aiming to strengthen the connection between consumers, farmers and the people behind dairy products. Stay connected with us for more agriculture content on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, along with our weekly videos!

Clinton Griffiths hosts AgDay: 200 farm groups send President Trump a letter asking for help, explaining the new H-2A wage rule, a grocer in California partners with a farm to create a corn maze and fighting with the perfect Halloween pumpkin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labor has been an ever-growing need in the agriculture industry in recent years, and the H2A program has been through some turmoil with making sure foreign workers can stay. This led to Congressman Derrick Van Orden introducing the Agriculture Reform Act of 2025. The Representative says that this new act would allow these workers to continue working given that they go back to their home countries and enter legally.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ag employers took a big sigh of relief last week after the Department of Labor revised the methodology for determining the H-2A program's Adverse Effect Wage Rate.

*The cotton jassid is a threat to the Texas cotton industry.  *U.S. and Canadian officials are preparing for the first review of the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement.  *International trade is very important to the U.S. sorghum industry. *Farmers are looking for the best marketing opportunities in a time of low prices.  *This has been a challenging pecan harvest in Texas.  *The Department of Labor is proposing changes to the H2A guest worker program.  *Fall has finally arrived in South Texas.  *It's important to use the proper technique when using drenches to deworm cattle.  

Music legends gather for 40th anniversary Farm Aid concert. Changes may be coming to H-2A. R.D. Offutt holds potato dig days. A rancher and her niece team up to raise a unique breed of sheep.

En 2018, cientos de trabajadores de México con visas de trabajo H-2A, que sirven para traer a trabajadores agrícolas a los campos de los Estados Unidos, subieron a autobuses con destino a las granjas de las zonas rurales de Georgia. Muchos de estos trabajadores cayeron en una trampa que, años después, se convertiría en parte de una de las operaciones de tráfico más grandes en el país. Más detalles en nuestra conversación a continuación.

Farm margins are tight and the headlines aren't lying—tariffs, fertilizer and machinery costs, and labor constraints are hitting producers. Jackson Takach (Farmer Mac) breaks down what's signal vs. noise. What we cover: Tariffs 101: Section 301 (unfair trade), 232 (national security), and IEEPA actions (the biggest bucket and under legal challenge). Why these hit steel/aluminum and fertilizer components—and how that flows to implement and input prices. Costs that pay back vs. pure drag: seed tech and risk-reduction can be worth it; fertilizer, machinery and labor are harder to offset—2026 looks tighter than 2025. Adaptation that actually helps: proven tech + regenerative practices to reduce input reliance. Bankruptcies: Chapter 12 filings are up in Arkansas and Nebraska—rising from 2023–24 lows back toward 2018–20 levels. Regional stress drivers: soy/rice/cotton marketing pain and flooding in AR; feedlot squeeze and weaker soy export pull in NE. Policy + relief: ongoing US–China trade talks; ~$15–20B of prior-year USDA aid still to deploy; Farm Bill politics and PLC “facelift” dynamics. Opportunities: growing global protein demand, renewable diesel/SAF, and more U.S. soybean crush capacity. Labor & immigration: H‑2A works for seasonal crops; year‑round gaps push automation. AI's real role: better data sense‑making and lending workflows—not replacing credit decisions. Land values: Midwest stabilizing/slipping, Southeast firming, West = water‑dependent. Introducing the Farmland Price Index (Farmer Mac × AcreValue) built on transactions, not surveys. Farmer Mac https://www.farmermac.com/   The Feed - Farmland Price Index (By Farmer Mac) https://farmermac.com/thefeed/q2-2025-farmland-price-index-update/   National Land Realty https://www.nationalland.com 

American agriculture relies on foreign workers, and they rely on the H-2A visa program to work legally in the United States. Despite a growing number of people applying for visa spots, the Trump administration has proposed cutting the division of the Department of Labor that enforces H-2A rules, leaving workers to choose between being vulnerable to ICE or to exploitation.  Guest: Max Blau, ProPublica reporter covering health care, the environment, agriculture and immigration. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

American agriculture relies on foreign workers, and they rely on the H-2A visa program to work legally in the United States. Despite a growing number of people applying for visa spots, the Trump administration has proposed cutting the division of the Department of Labor that enforces H-2A rules, leaving workers to choose between being vulnerable to ICE or to exploitation.  Guest: Max Blau, ProPublica reporter covering health care, the environment, agriculture and immigration. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

American agriculture relies on foreign workers, and they rely on the H-2A visa program to work legally in the United States. Despite a growing number of people applying for visa spots, the Trump administration has proposed cutting the division of the Department of Labor that enforces H-2A rules, leaving workers to choose between being vulnerable to ICE or to exploitation.  Guest: Max Blau, ProPublica reporter covering health care, the environment, agriculture and immigration. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todd Miller of Head Honchos talks with Tyrell Marchant about H-2A programs and Abby George joins Joe Paschal, Texas A&M University, to discuss New World Screwworm and if it's ‘if it comes', or ‘when it comes'. The podcast team chats about beef prices and the best western movie actors.

pWotD Episode 3063: H-1B visa Welcome to popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 294,333 views on Saturday, 20 September 2025 our article of the day is H-1B visa.The H-1B is a classification of non-immigrant visa in the United States that allows U. S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations, as well as fashion models and employees engaged in Department of Defense projects who meet certain conditions. The regulation and implementation of visa programs are carried out by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), an agency within the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Foreign nationals may have H-1B status while present in the United States, and may or may not have a physical H-1B visa stamp.INA section 101(a)(15)(H)(i)(b), codified at 8 USC 1184 (i)(1) defines "specialty occupation" as an occupation that requires(A) theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge, and(B) attainment of a bachelor's degree or higher degree in the specific specialty (or its equivalent) as a minimum for entry into the occupation in the United States. [1] H-1B visa status holders typically have an initial three-year stay in the U. S. They are entitled to a maximum of six years of physical presence in H-1B status. After reaching certain milestones in the green card process, H-1B status can be extended beyond the six-year maximum. The number of initial H-1B visas issued each fiscal year is capped at 65,000, with an additional 20,000 visas available for individuals who have earned a master's degree or higher from a U. S. institution, for a total of 85,000. Some employers are exempt from this cap. Sponsorship by an employer is required for applicants.In 2019, the USCIS estimated there were 583,420 foreign nationals on H-1B visas in the United States. Between 1991 and 2022, the number of H-1B visas issued quadrupled. 265,777 H-1B visas were approved in 2022, the second-largest category of visa in terms of the number of foreign workers after the 310,676 H-2A visas issued to temporary, seasonal, agriculture workers.The H-1B program has been criticized for potentially subsidizing businesses, creating conditions likened to modern indentured servitude, institutionalizing discrimination against older workers, and suppressing wages within the technology sector. Economists and academics remain divided on the program's overall effect, including its effects on innovation, U. S. workers, and the broader economy.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 01:29 UTC on Sunday, 21 September 2025.For the full current version of the article, see H-1B visa on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm neural Brian.

After years of debate, Enrique Gastelum, CEO at the Worker and Farmer Labor Association, says the time has come for a better understanding of the H-2A visa program.

In this week's Ag Tribes Report, Vance is joined by Missouri farmer and former Missouri Farm Bureau president Blake Hurst. They cover John Deere's latest layoffs amid a tough farm economy and what this downcycle means for equipment buyers, the Trump team's floated idea to fund farm aid with tariff revenues (and Blake's sharp critique of running money “in a circle”), and USDA's push to expand U.S. ethanol exports to the UK, including a frank debate about mandates, price impacts at the pump, and ethanol as a strategic grain reserve. We also examine concerns from Alberta about immigrant wage subsidies crowding out youth jobs and how labor realities are playing out on U.S. farms, including Blake's experience with the H-2A program. In the Bitcoin Land Price Report, they discuss volatility versus real assets, stablecoins for cross-border payments, and why instant, low-cost settlement could threaten credit card rails. We close with Blake's Peter Thiel paradox—why losing some acres to other uses might actually help farmers by tightening supplies—and his broadside against protectionist trade instincts within agriculture. Plus, where to follow Blake's writing and what's coming up next on the road in Manhattan, Kansas for the Flinchbaugh Forum.Legacy Interviews - A service that records individuals and couples telling their life stories so that future generations can know their family history. https://www.legacyinterviews.com/experienceRiver.com - Invest in Bitcoin with Confidence https://river.com/signup?r=OAB5SKTP

Enrique Gastelum, CEO at WAFLA, the Worker and Farmer Labor Association, says there are three big challenges that need addressed, and the first is the skyrocketing Adverse Effect Wage Rate.

This week's agriculture news highlights policy developments as Congress returns to session, including updates on labor, environmental regulations and water policy. We also bring insights from Bayer Crop Science on the future of short corn. A federal district court in Louisiana recently vacated part of the 2023 Adverse Effect Wage Rate Rule, specifically the H-2A disaggregation provision. Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Agency has withdrawn proposed revisions to wastewater regulations for meat and poultry processors. Looking ahead, the Trump administration is preparing to propose a new Clean Water Act rule in the coming weeks. Additional reports point to a projected increase in U.S. net farm income in 2025, along with new insights on ag export trends. A conversation on the future of short corn, in addition to what it provides to growers, is this week's interview with two voices from Bayer Crop Science: NA Technical Product Lead for Preceon™ Devin Hammer and Digital Enablement Product Lead Andy Folta. They share how shorter, thicker stalks benefit the plant, the length of time Bayer has been testing the Preceon™ Smart Corn System, and how short corn can also be utilized for silage. This discussion took place at the recent Farm Progress Show with Ag News Daily Co-Host Tanner Winterhof. Stay connected with us for more agriculture content on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, along with our weekly videos! ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW IRM, WHERE APPLICABLE, GRAIN MARKETING AND ALL OTHER STEWARDSHIP PRACTICES AND PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. ©2025 Bayer Group. All rights reserved.

Today on the AgNet NewsHour, Nick Papagni and Lorrie Boyer hosted Don Cameron, President of the California State Board of Food and Agriculture, to discuss the many challenges and opportunities facing California farmers today. Cameron, who also manages his own farms in the Biola area, shared expert insights from both a policy and practical farming perspective. Labor Challenges in California Agriculture A central topic of conversation was labor in agriculture. Cameron emphasized the critical importance of a stable workforce for California's labor-intensive crops. He highlighted the need for programs like H2A, which allows temporary workers to enter the country legally, and stressed the benefits of providing long-term workers with some form of legalization so they can continue working without fear. Cameron noted that without reliable labor, food production in California—and by extension, the United States—would be significantly disrupted. Water Management and Sustainable Farming Water management was another major focus. Cameron discussed the need for sustainable groundwater practices, especially as regulations limit pumping in over drafted basins. He stressed that farmers must maximize the value of every drop of water, focusing on high-value crops and reducing overall usage. While ideal solutions such as new storage and water delivery systems may take decades, Cameron encouraged efficiency and strategic planning for the long-term sustainability of California agriculture. Automation and Agricultural Innovation To address labor challenges, Cameron's operations are embracing automation and innovation. He described experiments with mechanical and laser weeders and drone technology, highlighting the potential for these tools to improve efficiency and offset labor shortages. These investments, along with careful crop management, help farmers remain competitive in a challenging global market. Competing with Global Agriculture Cameron addressed how California farmers face challenges from cheaper imports from countries like Mexico and Brazil. While international labor costs are lower, California farms provide higher wages, better working conditions, and sustainable practices. Consumers supporting local produce, he said, is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. Financial Pressures and Pest Management Cameron also addressed the financial pressures facing farmers, including low commodity prices, rising costs, abandoned farmland, and pest challenges such as rodents destroying orchards and drip systems. He encouraged small and young farmers to take advantage of programs through CDFA and NRCS to maintain stability and remain viable in a high-cost environment. California Agriculture: A National Treasure Overall, Cameron praised California agriculture as a national treasure, capable of producing over 400 crops efficiently and sustainably. His insights underscored the resilience, innovation, and careful planning required for the state's agricultural industry to thrive amid complex environmental, economic, and regulatory pressures. For more updates on California agriculture, visit AgNet West at AgNetWest.com and follow their podcast on your preferred platform.

Headlines on today's episode include:-Ethanol industry reacts to new EPA SRE exemptions-Crop insurance payments to impact net farm income-Current ag climate calls for farm bill-Farmer says H-2A program has uncertain future for her operation-Cattle placements at high end of estimatesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

American farms are facing an unprecedented workforce crisis as Temporary Protected Status (TPS) programs for multiple countries terminate this August, threatening to remove an estimated 76,000 agricultural workers from the labor force. But what does this mean for food security, rural economies, and the future of legal farm labor?Immigration Nerds Host, Lauren Clarke, is joined by immigration attorney LJ D'Arrigo to reveal how farms following the law through H-2A visa programs face greater penalties than those operating in gray areas, creating a dangerous compliance paradox.D'Arrigo breaks down the "August 5th cliff" – the simultaneous termination of TPS designations for Nepal, Cameroon, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Haiti – and explains why states like Florida (357,000 TPS holders) and Texas (124,000) will be hit hardest. While the Department of Labor signals potential H-2A streamlining efforts, the reality is stark: many longtime farm workers with decades of loyalty to their employers face impossible choices between self-deportation or living in the shadows.From the human cost of breaking up farm families to the economic impact of losing trained workers, this episode explores practical solutions farms can implement now, the enforcement climate creating fear even among legal workers, and why seasonal agricultural visas may be the one area where immigration reform is actually possible. Essential listening for anyone navigating the intersection of immigration policy and America's food supply.GUEST: Leonard J D'Arrigo (LJ), Harris Beach Murtha PartnerHOST: Lauren Clarke, EIG Senior Managing AttorneyPRODUCER: Adam Belmar

In an oversupplied market with rising costs, being a winegrape grower is probably the hardest it has ever been. Natalie Collins, President of the California Association of Winegrape Growers, breaks down the cost of winegrape growing in CA, the challenges in the marketplace, and the policy dynamics in the US, CA, and EU that continue to exacerbate the challenges for CA's winegrape growers. Detailed Show Notes: CA Winegrape Growers - based in Sacramento, lobbies at the state and federal levelCA has ~5,900 winegrape growers and 550k planted acresKey cost drivers of winegrape growing#1 labor, ~45-50% of budget (30-45% CA interior, 45-65% CA coast); doubled in the last 10 years, driven by:High min wage ($16.50; most pay $18-30/hr) → increases take entire pay curve up, not just bottom2016 labor law change reducing hours before overtime pay → reduced farmworker take-home pay (OR provides an overtime tax credit to employers)#2 regulatory compliance (water, air, worker health, safety), ~10% budgetCal State SLO study on lettuce growers - compliance costs ~$1,600/acre (1,366% increase since 2006, 637% since 2022)#3 land - CA has some of the highest land prices in the US #4 crop protection/fertility toolsFarming costs ~$4k/acre Central Valley, $6-8k/acre Paso Robles, $8-10k/acre Sonoma, ~$10-17k/acre NapaGrape pricing not rising w/ input costs - Central Valley ~$500-600/ton, Central Coast ~$1-2k/tonBulk wine from Chile is cheap, and the US can't compete on priceThe annual CA Winegrape Crush Report shows pricing for all varieties by districtNo US federal support vs EUEU subsidizes at every level (growing, marketing, production)>e2B/year in direct and local support, enabling cheap wine productionCrisis distillation - buy surplus wine to convert to alcohol (e.g., hand sanitizer)Vineyard removal and vineyard planting subsidiesAggressive marketing support (France investing $5B to support wine exports to the US w/ new tariffs)US wines can have up to 25% foreign wine blended in and be labeled as US wine2023-2024 - CA left ~300k tons/year on the vines; 2025 ~50% of vineyards don't have a contract for the 2025 harvest; industry calling for another 50k acres to be removed (60k removed since 2022); all regions pulling out or mothballing/minimally farming vinesTariff impacts (May 2025)- input costs increase, but can be positive for CA winegrape growers2019 tariffs saw domestic wine increase its share by 10% vs EU winesCanada is actively removing US wines from shelves in retaliation; the US exports 10% of its wines, 40% to CanadaDeportations - creating fear, people are afraid to leave their homes for fear of their families getting separatedSeasonal labor is not big, 90% vineyards are mechanically harvested; H2A temporary workers (mostly from Mexico, all-in cost ~$30/hr, often more productive, cannot be paid more than domestic workers)Economic impact of CA wine - 422k CA employees / 1.1M across US, $73B CA economic impact / $175B/year USAll agriculture is struggling in CA, replacement crops for grapes not easy (some almonds, pistachios, cherries); costs ~$30-70k/acre to plant a vineyardDuty Drawback - a federal tax refund program meant to encourage exportsIf a winery exports wines, then imports them back, it gets 99% of import fees (including the Federal Excise Tax of $1.07/gallon) refundedIf importing ~$3/gallon bulk wine, can save ~30%Mostly used by the top 5 wine companies2024 - 38M gallons bulk imported (70M in 2022) vs ~70M gallons left on the vine in 2023 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Agriculture news has gone mainstream in a big way recently, and few farmers are happy about it. Immigration raids on farms, especially those in California and elsewhere along the U.S.'s southern border, have been growing as Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials become a more and more constant presence on the road and in the field. And even farmers whose workers are hired through the H2-A program, the federal guest worker system, are feeling the heat. Today, DTN Ag Policy Editor Chris Clayton brings us up to date on all the latest policy news around the agricultural workforce. We'll dig into the details of his recent story on the H-2A program, talking through the benefits and the drawbacks farmers experience, and why it seems to be becoming increasingly expensive and risky to use, even as the number of H-2A visa requests continues to grow. We'll also hear updates from Capitol Hill and the White House about how farmers' concerns are being heard and what policy solutions might be on the way as advocates continue to raise their voices.Then, we'll hear about how labor issues collide with shifting trade pressures, trends in the U.S. workforce, and even changes to federal staffing levels due to recent restructuring of key organizations, including the USDA.

Michelle Rook hosts AgDay: 45Z could be a new revenue stream for producers, but how can farmers get involved? We have some answers. Plus, a look at the H-2A program and efforts by the dairy industry to improve it, and we meet another Barn Hero!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AABP Executive Director Dr. Fred Gingrich is joined by Rick Naerebout, executive director of the Idaho Dairymen's Association to discuss the impacts of immigration raids on dairy and beef operations. Veterinarians play a key role in working with their clients on a variety of labor issues. Helping clients prepare for a potential ICE raid is a conversation that veterinarians may consider having as they work with the caregivers on these operations. The intent of this podcast is for general advice and discussion purposes and not be construed as legal advice which should come from a licensed attorney specific to your needs and circumstances. Veterinarians should encourage clients to reach out to an attorney who specializes in immigration law and review the links provided for further resources and contact information. Immigrants are not only important on farms, but also constitute a significant portion of the labor force in meat processing facilities. Labor shortages in any part of the supply chain could have negative impacts on beef and milk prices for our clients. Naerebout discusses that the majority of the volume of fluid milk in the country is harvested by immigrant labor and it is estimated that at least 50% of the workforce does not have legal status. The utilization of immigrant labor is also regionally influenced in the U.S. and therefore in some areas of the country, these figures will be higher.  Naerebout discusses some of the challenges immigrants face in securing legal documentation to work on beef and dairy operations or meat packing facilities. H2A visas are for seasonal work and TN visas require a degreed position, neither of which may qualify for many of the employment opportunities on our clients' farms.  Preparing your clients is important. Discussing with employees and managers what they should do in the event of an ICE raid is an important part of preparation, along with securing legal counsel. Naerebout also recommends signage at the entrance to the facility as well as signage that delineates public vs. private areas is critical. An administrative warrant does not authorize agents to enter private areas and therefore signage should be visible identifying such areas.  For more information, visit these links:National Immigration Law CenterAmerican Immigration CouncilAmerican Immigration Lawyers Association

Esta semana tuvimos como invitada a Daniela Dib, del equipo editorial de Whitepaper. Hablamos del impacto positivo que han tenido en México los aranceles, del presupuesto aprobado en EUA y de los requisitos para las visas H2A. También de la ronda de inversión de Plenna y del proyecto de Murano. En el deep dive, Daniela contó cómo ha sido el behind the scenes del contenido que reciben nuestros suscriptores los viernes.notas del episodio 02:04 - aranceles05:47 - presupuesto aprobado de EUA y visas H2A10:27 - Plenna16:34 - Murano27:53 - deep diverecomendaciones serie MentirasCompra tu Eight Sleep usando el código WhitepaperCompra tu gorra o ilustraciones de Whitepaper aquíPrueba Whitepaper 30 días gratis

What happens when the interviewer becomes the guest? This week on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, the mic flips as Rodger Wasson, longtime advocate for farmers and host of the Farm to Table Talk Podcast, interviews our own Michael Kilpatrick. From behind-the-scenes systems to current hurdles, Rodger dives deep into the day-to-day of Michael's farm, business, and mindset as a leader in the regenerative agriculture space. Tune in for a rare peek into what's working (and what's not) at the Farm on Central farm and store — and why Michael remains committed to helping small farms succeed.   In This Episode, You'll Hear: Product overview – What the Farm on Central store offers and what's produced on the farm [2:57] Mushroom production – Does the team grow fungi on site? [8:19] Local sourcing – How much of their product lineup is grown at home vs. sourced [11:28] Marketing strategy – How they reach customers and spread the word [18:10] Current challenges – The biggest hurdles facing Michael and the team right now [28:30] Food access – Can SNAP/EBT be used on the farm? [32:32] Housing and labor – What the team structure looks like and if they use H2A housing [40:26] Small-acreage potential – Michael's outlook on what's possible with limited land [52:44] Don't miss this episode if you've ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a diversified, modern farm—from managing products and marketing to tackling regulation and building a resilient business model.   Michael Kilpatrick's Farm:

We have an informative conversation with Alabama Farmers Federation District 6 Director, Phillip Hunter. Phillip and his bother, Will, own Hunter Trees, LLC in Alpine. The operation uses guest workers through the H-2A legal labor program. Phillip also represents Alabama, nationally, as the chairman of the American Farm Bureau Federation's Agricultural Labor Issue Advisory Committee.John Allen Nichols, agriculture council for the Farmers Federation, wraps up with information about tax incentives for poultry farmers.Find out more about our sponsor, Alabama Ag Credit, and also about Alabama Farmers Federation.

AgNet News Hour – Labor Solutions, Walnut Momentum, and Global Almond Growth On today's AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill deliver an insightful pre-Independence Day show that covers some of the biggest topics facing agriculture right now—from labor reform to market outlooks for California's leading commodities. The episode opens with a discussion of a major development from the U.S. Department of Labor: the creation of a new Office of Immigration Policy. This office aims to streamline legal work visa processing, particularly for industries like agriculture that rely heavily on seasonal and skilled immigrant labor. As delays in the H-2A program continue to cost farmers millions in lost crops, the potential for reform is welcome news. Nick and Josh explore what this could mean for fruit and vegetable growers, dairy operations, and the broader ag economy. Then, listeners are treated to a candid and optimistic interview with walnut grower Devin Norene, who farms in the Southern Sacramento Valley and serves on the California Walnut Board. Norene discusses why 2024 could mark a major comeback year for the walnut industry. After years of logistical challenges and price pressure, this year's weather and market alignment may finally deliver the quality and yield farmers need. He also highlights improved marketing efforts that are putting California walnuts on center stage alongside almonds and pistachios. The team also looks ahead to the upcoming July 9 tariff decision, which could significantly impact export opportunities—especially for walnuts, where global competition from China remains strong. Plus, there's a preview of the UC ANR Walnut Field Day on July 18 in Rio Oso, and an almond trade update featuring leaders from the Almond Board of California and delegates from Kansas and New Mexico who recently joined a NASDA trade mission focused on Morocco—a fast-growing export market for U.S. tree nuts. Before signing off, Nick and Josh share some Fourth of July grilling tips and favorite summer treats. From serious ag policy to barbecue talk, today's episode is packed with value.

Clinton Griffiths hosts AgDay: How are crops impacted by the heat wave hitting the Midwest and East Coast, and is a break from the extreme heat on the way? Plus, the Ag Secretary says modifications to the H-2A program are on the way, and a recent farm auction in Iowa marked the end of one era and the beginning of another.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 It’s peak harvest time for sweet cherries in Oregon and Washington. Growers in the Pacific Northwest are anticipating a strong crop this year, with a higher yield than last year’s harvest. But what they weren’t anticipating was a workforce shortage that’s being driven by the fear of immigration enforcement raids. KUOW reported earlier on how this issue is threatening the livelihoods of cherry farmers in Washington.    The immigration crackdown is also clouding the outlook for cherry growers in Oregon, according to Ian Chandler, chair of the Oregon Sweet Cherry Commission and the co-owner of CE Farm Management, a cherry orchard in The Dalles. Chandler said he’s not aware of any recent immigration enforcement raids on farms in the Columbia Gorge. But he says the fear of potential enforcement activity led to a 50% reduction in available workers for most cherry farmers in the region at the start of harvest two weeks ago.   Some migrant farm workers whose employers obtained H-2A visas for them have also been stuck at the border in Mexico and unable to help with the harvest in The Dalles, according to Tiffany Davis, business manager for K&K Land and Management. Chandler, Davis and Monica Zipprich, an orchard manager at K&K Land and Management, join us to talk about the toll federal immigration enforcement is taking on the Oregon sweet cherry industry.  

Shaun Haney of RealAgriculture moderates this week's Friday Free-for-all with panelists Jim Wiesemeyer, Davis Michaelsen, and John Newton, Executive Head of Terrain. Topics include H-2A temporary workers, immigration and ICE, trade, Iran and Israel, Federal Reserve rates and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "Uncut with Lyndsay and Shannon," the hosts share candid stories from their flower farms, including Shannon's chaotic experience with a troublesome Airbnb guest and Lyndsay's struggles with crop losses due to relentless rain. They discuss the arrival of new H-2A workers, sourcing flowers from other farms, and upcoming events like a wedding design workshop. The conversation highlights the unpredictability of farming, the importance of community, and their ongoing efforts to adapt and grow, offering listeners an honest glimpse into the joys and challenges of running a flower business.If you want to dive in deeper with us each month, join our membership group - The Dirt on Flowers Insiders! So if you love the podcast and want to dig deeper with us, head over to www.thedirtonflowers.com/membership to join now. Did you love today's episode? Take a screenshot and share it in your IG stories. Don't forget to tag @dirtonflowers!Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts!Head to www.thedirtonflowers.com to sign up for our newsletter and become a Dirt on Flowers insider!Want to learn more about your hosts? Follow us on Instagram!Lyndsay @wildroot_flowercoShannon @bloomhillfarm