News

Leadership key to consistent ag workforce

An extension business management specialist says building employer leadership will help ensure farm operations successfully recruit and retain ag labor.

Betty Berning with the University of Minnesota tells Brownfield a strong U.S. economy has resulted in a dwindling workforce for many farmers, especially those in dairy and specialty crop production.

“And the issue isn’t so much that employees are difficult or not listening.  The issue is that it’s just really hard to find employees.”

She says Extension has focused on enhancing employer leadership qualities as a way to entice potential employees to consider a career in agriculture.

“If I’m able to be a good leader, people are going to want to come work for me ideally.  We don’t offer a silver bullet; I’ll add that disclaimer.  But we do offer solutions that should make it a little bit easier to both find and keep employees.”

Berning says Bureau of Labor statistics comparing ag wages to a comparable industry like construction show a nearly $10 dollar difference in hourly pay, which can also make it difficult for farm operators looking to hire.

Minnesota Extension is hosting a seminar April 4^th in Rochester titled “Becoming a Preferred Employer” to address some of these challenges.