Dairy Labor News
Whether in a blue or a red state, the message to Washington is the same: the U.S. dairy and agricultural sectors cannot remain globally competitive while their workforce remains in the shadows.
From styling hair to managing a herd of 650 cows, Justine Holland has traded her salon chair for the barn and found a career she loves.
A federal audit wiped out Drumgoon Dairy’s staff, exposing agriculture’s labor crisis. This South Dakota farm’s labor struggle highlights the urgent need for immigration reform to sustain the U.S. food supply.
This South Dakota dairy is a beacon of prosperity. From their calves to their 6,200 cows, comprehensive monitoring and a focus on healthy and productive animals drive success forward.
Conflict on the farm is a normal part of working with people, and if it’s addressed early and handled respectfully, it can help teams work better together.
Looking ahead to the new year, the reliance on human capital will only intensify. The conversation within the dairy community is increasingly centered on not just finding employees but cultivating talent.
Dairy’s future hinges on immigration reform. Labor is the top challenge with immigrant workers milking over two-thirds of cows. Pragmatic, bipartisan solutions are vital for sustainability.
Three dairymen at the MILK Business Conference explain how steady, intentional decisions around people, technology and key metrics are helping their farms stay competitive and resilient.
The future of the dairy industry is rife with opportunity. Gregg Doud with NMPF highlighted the industry’s strides forward, its present challenges and the promising path ahead.
Federal government will cut the bureaucracy to support the dairy industry, focused on tougher measures to stop major animal disease problems and improve labor availability.
In a world where leadership is often equated with authority, this Wisconsin dairy office manager offers a refreshing perspective rooted in empathy and empowerment.
We are now learning more about those who lost their lives on Aug. 20, as a tight-knit community is reeling from the devastating accident that occurred at Prospect Valley Dairy.
Jane Muir, People Team Leader from New Zealand Dairy highlighted at the 2025 IDF World Dairy Summit in Santiago, Chile: “New Zealand dairy survives and thrives because of our efforts and immigration.”
Addressing workforce challenges is a pivotal concern within the dairy industry. Dairy leaders recently shared their insights and strategies on overcoming these challenges. Here’s what they had to say.
This event is crafted to empower both producers and businesses with invaluable insights and connections that will propel their dairy ventures forward.
In dairying, the heart of success lies not just in robust processes or advanced technologies but in the strength and well-being of the workforce.
For decades, dairy farm organizations have consistently called for the creation of effective and sustainable pathways for immigrant farm workers to obtain legal worker status in the U.S. Organizations like Edge Dairy Coop outline a practical solution with key components.
The inaugural Dairy Employee Soccer Tournament was more than just a game; it was a celebration of community, connection and camaraderie.
Getting a second opinion is not just about attention to detail — it’s about adopting a mindset that welcomes change and innovation. For dairy farmers striving for financial stability and growth, this outlook can be transformative.
The 2025 Milk Business award recipients exemplify the best of the dairy industry, from technological advancement to inspiring personal stories.
Labor costs continue to rise for California farmers, but skilled labor isn’t something growers are able to find with the current H-2A program. Labor experts, economists and farmers agree the current immigration system is “broken,” but a solution could be on the horizon.
Six individuals tragically lost their lives following a confined space rescue operation at a Keenesburg, Colo., dairy farm.
As part of this W&W Dairy transition, DFA implemented E-Verify, a federal system that verifies employees’ immigration status. This move has caused turmoil, particularly among the plant’s immigrant workforce.
In recent years, discussions around the slowing growth rate of the U.S. labor force have intensified, igniting concerns over potential economic impacts.
Katie Dotterer’s passion for dairy and Spanish has evolved into a significant mission —bridging communication gaps within the agricultural sector.
The success and productivity of the U.S. dairy industry are deeply tied to immigrant labor.
Growth in Ben Smith’s dairy operation isn’t just about expanding the acreage or increasing the number of cows. It’s about capturing opportunities that align with their values and boost efficiencies.
At least nine dairies in Texas were targets of I-9 audits over the weekend. Producers argue it’s a “broken” immigration system, and the recent audits prove the E-Verify program has flaws. Despite criticism, the dairy industry is pushing to be included in the H-2A guest worker program.
The integration of robotic milking systems is more than a technological upgrade; it’s a catalyst for advancing the dairy industry toward a more sustainable future.
A shrinking labor pool is already having an impact, and ag experts say it’s only going to get tougher.