Story perspectives

Idaho Farms Face Labor Crisis Amid Immigration Raids

10/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Owyhee Produce in Idaho experiences significant worker shortages due to ICE raids linked to President Trump's immigration policies.
The U.S. Labor Department warns that this labor shortage could lead to a food crisis.
General manager Shay Myers reported that the farm usually employs 300 workers through the H-2A visa program, but fears of deportation discourage applicants.
James O'Neill from the American Business Immigration Coalition stated that 50-60% of farm labor is undocumented, risking higher food prices.
Myers emphasizes the ethical responsibility to support seasonal workers amid these challenges.

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Story summary

Owyhee Produce in Idaho experiences significant worker shortages due to ICE raids linked to President Trump's immigration policies.
The U.S. Labor Department warns that this labor shortage could lead to a food crisis.
General manager Shay Myers reported that the farm usually employs 300 workers through the H-2A visa program, but fears of deportation discourage applicants.
James O'Neill from the American Business Immigration Coalition stated that 50-60% of farm labor is undocumented, risking higher food prices.
Myers emphasizes the ethical responsibility to support seasonal workers amid these challenges.