Perhaps, though many would be loath to forego more permanent positions for arduous seasonal work. Even if they could attract these workers, however, we cannot overlook the consequences of dramatically higher wages. Consumer prices inevitably would rise. More significantly, however, U.S. crops would become uncompetitive in the world market. Already we are fighting to maintain a foothold and compete against countries with lower production costs, significant subsidy programs, and discriminatory trade practices.
Agriculture is distinct.
It s literally rooted and a farm or orchard cannot move oversees. The production, however, can, and will, if we do not address this most critical issue of agricultural labor. The family farm is currently experiencing serious economic hardship and a seemingly impenetrable wall of regulation. In Washington state, growers face a myriad of environmental restrictions. They confront unfair trade practices, fear losing the ability to use chemicals they depend on, and are struggling from the crash of the Asian market.