Resources for Navigating Farm Labor
Resources from the industry to support organic farmers with sustainable labor solutions
Farmers are currently facing significant challenges in securing adequate labor
Farm labor is the backbone of the U.S. food system. From the strawberry fields of California to the dairies of the Northeast, agricultural workers perform some of the most physically demanding and economically vital work in the country, often under conditions that go unseen by the consumers they feed.
Recent Immigration policy and Border Patrol activity have caused concern among agricultural employers and employees. The agency carrying out these enforcement actions publicly stated its aim was to apprehend and detain criminal aliens against whom the agency has pending detention orders.
Many farms across the country have experienced significant disruptions to planting and harvest seasons and necessary farm work and have expressed concern for their employees and their families.
Research and Resources
IMMIGRATION
Legal Services Directory
Immigration Advocates Network
Know Your Rights Resources
California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation
Resources for Ag Employers
Farm Employers Labor Service
Section 1324 Explainer
National Immigration Project
Worker Resources
Centro de los Derechos del Migrante
OFA's FARMER HELPLINE
If you have a question, challenge, or idea, we want to hear from you!
Please call our team at: 1-883-714-3834 or email: helpline@organicfarmersassociation.org and we can help you and connect you to other resources, experts, and farmers.
Resources to Dig Deeper
La Migra is at the Door! What Do I Do?
Border Patrol apprehensions of agricultural workers in Bakersfield, California in early January 2025 triggered several waves of panic in California. Is a wave of worksite immigration raids and worksite enforcement on the horizon? What do you need to do to be ready? This webinar was presented by the Farm Employers Labor Service (FELS), an affiliated company of the California Farm Bureau, on March 21, 2025. Please use passcode 5W0W*J+Y to access the webinar recording.
ICE on the Farm Webinars
This webinar by Farm Commons takes a closer look at what federal law says about ICE access to farm property, including fields, homes, and other non-public areas. This session goes beyond the simple directive that ICE can’t enter non-public areas by putting the law in context of the open fields doctrine and regulatory limitations. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of what options are available when officers arrive, where legal uncertainties currently stand, and opportunities to hold government accountable if ICE overreaches.
Questions?
If you have questions, please contact OFA’s Farmer HelpLine at (833) 724-3834 or helpline[@]organicfarmersassociation.org.