Professional Agricultural Workers Journal

Article Title

H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers on Small Farms: Case Study Observations and Lessons Learned

Authors

Barrett Vaughan, Tuskegee UniversityFollow
LeRosha Ford, Tuskegee University
Silvia Brashier, Tuskegee University
Miles Robinson, Tuskegee UniversityFollow

Abstract

Abstract

The experiences of two small farmers in their efforts to employ and retain temporary agricultural workers through the H-2A Program were documented through an illustrative case study. Interviews of the farmers were conducted regarding the measures that they had to take in preparing for, employing, housing, hosting, managing, and financing the workers. These temporary agricultural workers were sought in support of these farmers’ continued participation in an initiative to assist small and limited-resource farmers in supplying produce to a major retailer. It was concluded that there are at least four priority areas for employing H-2A workers: planning, applying, maintaining compliance, and financing; and that, small farmers need to be strategic in employing H-2A workers to be profitable.

Keywords: Small Farmers, Temporary Agricultural Workers, H-2A Program, Commercial Supply

Recommended Citation

Vaughan, Barrett; Ford, LeRosha; Brashier, Silvia; and Robinson, Miles (2019) "H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers on Small Farms: Case Study Observations and Lessons Learned," Professional Agricultural Workers Journal: Vol. 7: No. 1, 2.
Available at: https://tuspubs.tuskegee.edu/pawj/vol7/iss1/2