Labor challenges have been a big hurdle for U.S. producers, and it has led some to explore a unique type of visa program.
“TN visas are part of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and so they’re designated to nationals of Canada and Mexico who have professional degrees in a set number of professions, including foresters, veterinarians, and a certain number of agricultural professions. From a farmer side, they’re generally used mostly in pork production and dairy production, anyone who has specialized services, and generally doesn’t have access to H-2A because they’re not seasonal,” said Samantha Ayoub.
The Farm Bureau says the program works differently for each country workers come from. They have seen a big increase in applications in recent years, but they end up denying around 20 percent of all applications.
Texas Tech’s Dr. Jennifer Koziol discusses the latest New World screwworm cases in Texas, ongoing response efforts, and how livestock biosecurity can prevent the pest’s spread.
Corn ethanol demand and stronger oilseed processing continue supporting domestic markets for crop producers.
The Washington State Tree Fruit Association says crop quality looks promising despite ongoing drought conditions.
IDA Texas’s Cooper Little discusses producer response to New World Screwworm in Texas, ongoing coordination with animal health officials, and the steps being taken to manage and protect livestock movement across the region.
The FAO report continues to serve as a key benchmark for global food market conditions, offering insight into how shifting supply and demand dynamics are impacting food systems worldwide.
Rep. Vicente Gonzalez says producers are concerned about the potential impact on cattle operations and livestock values.