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.

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.

  • 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.

  • Training Your Employees (Farm Manager Video Series)

    Training your crews to do their jobs effectively from the start is a key way to avoid problems later. This short video from the Farm Manager Video Series shares practical strategies for training farm employees so that they contribute to the success of the farm.

  • Why and How Farmers Protect Their Skin

    In this Growing For Market article Katie Kulla writes about an important, but often overlooked health issue: skin protection. Explore why skin protection matters and how you can go out into the field confident that you're doing your best for your skin.

  • Your Role as an Employee Manager

    Use this Assessing Personnel Management Skills checklist to consider the various aspects of being a successful human resources manager and identify areas to work on developing knowledge and skills. (Developed by Iowa State University Extension & Outreach)