Washington state's apple orchards are poised for a record harvest this season, but growers warn that a critical labor shortage threatens to leave fruit unpicked. The agricultural sector's reliance on the H-2A visa program for temporary workers has become a double-edged sword, with rising costs and bureaucratic hurdles complicating operations.
Farmers report that local labor pools have dwindled significantly, forcing increased dependence on the federal program that allows seasonal agricultural workers from other countries. 'We're paying 40% more for labor than five years ago,' said one Yakima Valley grower who requested anonymity. 'Without H-2A workers, our $2.4 billion industry would collapse.'
The program's requirements now mandate $17.41/hour for workers – 55% higher than Washington's minimum wage – plus transportation and housing costs. This comes as Asian markets, particularly China and India, account for growing shares of Washington's $1.1 billion annual apple exports.
Industry analysts suggest the labor crunch could ripple through global supply chains, potentially affecting prices and availability in key Asian markets. The situation highlights broader challenges in agricultural labor markets as climate change and geopolitical factors reshape global food production networks.
