Lack of Immigration Reform Pushes Producers to Streamline Operations

Farmers are reporting revenue loses while waiting on immigration reform. Access to a skilled, reliable workforce is causing many producers to struggle. New Mexico farmer Marianne Schweers said she tried to hire 30-35 workers to harvest her grapes, but after one month she only received 15 applications. That has caused her to hold back and streamline operations, which may cut into her bottom line. “I need to have workers,” said Schweers. “You can’t grow a business when you are just looking at those kinds of risks where you might not be able to harvest the crop.” Listen to more.