Wisconsin's dairy industry faces challenges in recruiting and retaining employees despite low unemployment rates. General manager Sandy Larson emphasizes offering growth opportunities, ongoing training, and clear advancement paths to engage employees.
Larson Acres has implemented annual appreciation events, employee recognition programs, and festive contests to attract workers but faces challenges in retaining them. To improve benefits, Larson needs to enhance healthcare, paid time-off, and clothing allowances. Additionally, providing rental housing near the farm is a valuable benefit.
Challenges extend beyond traditional farm labor to hiring IT professionals who can manage the farm's technology-driven operations effectively. Maintaining programs for milking cows, feeding livestock, and managing crops, alongside utilizing Excel sheets, demands individuals with a comprehensive understanding of various areas.
While other industries often rely on seasonal, guest worker programs like H-2A, dairy farms struggle with this approach due to year-round milking requirements. The turnover resulting from workers' visa limitations hampers productivity and efficiency.
Dairy processing plants also face labor shortages, leading to reduced operating hours and an oversupply of milk that depresses prices. Leonard Polzin, a dairy markets and policy specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Division of Extension, highlights the industry's exploration of automation and technology advancements to streamline operations and potentially replace certain tasks.
Wisconsin's dairy industry must focus on addressing labor challenges and embracing technology and automation for future growth. By adapting recruitment strategies, offering comprehensive benefits, and exploring innovative solutions, businesses can attract and retain skilled workers in this crucial sector.
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Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Dairy Cattle