Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative Supports New H-2A Visa Guidance for Dairy Farms

The Trump administration has announced new guidance permitting dairy farms to participate in the H-2A visa program, traditionally used for temporary agricultural labor. This adjustment, revealed on Wednesday, enables dairy farms to apply for the program if they can demonstrate a temporary or seasonal labor need. This marks a shift from previous regulations that excluded dairy farms due to their year-round operational nature.

According to a release from the United States Department of Agriculture, the new guidance specifies that dairy operations can now be considered under the H-2A program. However, each application will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, adhering to the existing statutory and regulatory standards applicable to all H-2A employers.

Heidi Fischer, President of the Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, expressed optimism about the development, stating, "As a dairy farmer, this move is an encouraging milestone to have access to a visa program and address our labor force needs." She emphasized that the cooperative has been advocating for this change for several years and plans to continue its engagement on this crucial issue.

The Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative sees this change as a meaningful first step toward more permanent reforms to the H-2A program. Fischer highlighted the broader implications of workforce reform, stating, "We believe workforce reform is a food security issue and ultimately a national security issue." She stressed the importance of having a reliable, skilled workforce to ensure food security in the United States.

Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative is based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and represents dairy farmers throughout the Midwest. It is one of the leading cooperatives in the country by milk volume, providing a strong voice for dairy farmers in Congress and within their communities.