Good decision-making around the type and amount of labor needed on a farm enhances the farm household’s quality of life and increases the likelihood farmers will successfully meet their financial goals. This site provides tools and strategies to help small and medium-sized fruit and vegetable farms make informed labor decisions.

Events

  • Women Farmers Aging Strong: Thrive

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    Women Farmers Aging Strong is a farmer-led, monthly online series for information, support and resource sharing to help farmers preserve and protect our most important farming tool...ourselves. This session focuses on evolving with your farm as you age and taking care of your hands.

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Explore Resources

  • Know Your Rights with ICE and Border Patrol

    This two-pager provides guidance on what to do should ICE or Border Patrol come to your farm or stops your vehicle. Note: While the information in this resource has been reviewed by immigration attorneys, it should not be considered legal advice. For legal advice pertaining to your needs please consult with an attorney.

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  • Conflict Resolution Guidelines: A Quick Guide

    It is critical to the smooth workings of a farm that the people who work there take the time to resolve conflicts in a respectful way. Work to resolve conflicts in ways that contribute to the health and harmony of the entire farm community with this 3-step guide.

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  • Attracting & Retaining Employees on Organic Vegetable Farms

    This 2021 report aims to help farmers create conditions that draw workers to their farm and encourage them to stay over the long term. Based on surveys and in-depth interviews with farmers primarily from the Upper Midwest, it is relevant to addressing common challenges among small and medium-sized vegetable producers in many parts of the US.

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  • Red Cards / Tarjetas Rojas

    This is a small card people can carry in wallet or pocket to assert their constitutional rights if ICE comes to their home. Available in 56 languages. Free from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.

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  • Payroll Taxes & Farm Businesses

    This FAQ-style resource helps farm businesses understand and manage payroll taxes. It covers topics such as Federal and State Unemployment Tax (FUTA and SUTA), the thresholds for paying these taxes, the costs involved, and the steps to comply with tax regulations. Author: Rachel Armstrong, Farm Commons. Last updated July 2024.

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  • Creating Cash Flow Projections

    Planning ahead is a key management strategy, especially when it comes to cash flow. A cash flow projection (or cash flow budget) uses your projected income and expenses to estimate the amount of money you expect to flow in and out of your business. Iowa State University and the Vermont Farm & Forest Viability Program both offer free cash flow templates that are available for download.

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