The Trump administration's plan to deport millions of undocumented immigrants has sparked concerns in the agricultural and food industries, with experts warning that mass deportations could disrupt the U.S. food supply. With 70% of agricultural workers in the country born outside the U.S. and nearly 40% undocumented, labor shortages could significantly impact food production.
Despite national concerns, Colorado farmers remain relatively unconcerned about the immediate effects on the state's $47 billion agriculture industry. Unlike California, where year-round employment attracts more undocumented workers, Colorado's shorter growing season makes it less reliant on unauthorized labor. Instead, the state depends heavily on the federal H-2A visa program, which allows employers to legally hire foreign seasonal workers.
The number of H-2A workers in Colorado has grown steadily, with nearly 4,000 employed in 2023, up from just 246 in 2001. The state's labor department estimates that 18,000 agricultural workers are covered under unemployment insurance, excluding undocumented workers and H-2A laborers. Approximately 25% to 30% of the workforce remains undocumented.
Many farmers believe their operations will not be affected. Palisade peach grower Bruce Talbott, who relies on H-2A workers, said foreign laborers from Central and South America continue to seek work in the U.S. for better wages. Sweet corn grower David Harold expressed confidence that the administration's policies would not disrupt his workforce. However, as most seasonal workers have not yet returned for the 2025 season, the full impact remains uncertain.
Some farmworkers on the Western Slope have voiced concerns. One worker, speaking anonymously, noted that fear of deportation might discourage laborers from reporting to work. California's Central Valley is already experiencing labor shortages, with migrant workers avoiding job sites and leaving crops unharvested. Experts warn Colorado could face similar challenges in the coming months.
While the administration supports the H-2A program, which Trump has described as a "source of legal and verified labor for agriculture," some officials, including Stephen Miller, argue that deportations will benefit American workers. However, agricultural experts disagree, citing a lack of evidence that domestic workers are willing to take on farm jobs.
The H-2A program has also faced criticism for exploitative conditions. A Denver Post investigation found that some Colorado farmers mistreat workers by withholding wages, threatening deportation, and providing poor living conditions. Despite these concerns, federal and state regulators continue approving H-2A applications, allowing businesses to rely on foreign labor despite allegations of abuse.
As immigration policies tighten, Colorado's agriculture industry faces uncertainty. While farmers hope their reliance on the H-2A program will prevent labor shortages, the broader impact of stricter enforcement could still disrupt the industry in unforeseen ways.
Source: Denver Post