For Leeds, North Dakota rancher Erica Kenner, the H-2A guest worker program has become essential to keeping the business operating. “The H-2A program has really allowed us to expand our operation and stay in the business,” Kenner says. “So without it, we really couldn’t continue the way we are so I’m very thankful for the program.” H-2A guest workers are needed due to the lack of local job-seekers. “Let’s face it, the local areas, the workforce just isn’t there anymore,” Kenner said. “These rural areas, their population is dwindling and the people who are there already have jobs.” North Dakota Farm Bureau President Val Wagner sees the H-2A issue as being about more than immigration. “This is truly a food security issue nationally.” Wagner said the proposed H-2A reform may not address every agricultural concern, but she sees it as a step toward longer-term workforce solutions.
