Wisconsin Dairy Industry Navigates Labor Shortage with Focus on Employee Well-being

The Wisconsin dairy industry is facing a labor shortage, just like many other industries in the state. Sandy Larson, the general manager of Larson Acres, a prominent dairy farm, says that employee engagement and growth opportunities are essential for retaining workers. While recruiting new employees hasn't been a major issue for Larson's farm, retaining trained workers has become a top concern.

To boost morale, the farm organizes appreciation events, employee recognition programs, and fun contests. In addition, Larson is considering offering an attractive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and allowances for work clothes. Providing rental housing near the farm has also become a crucial benefit due to the limited affordable housing options in the area.

However, it's not just hands-on farm labor that's difficult to fill; finding skilled IT professionals to manage the farm's technology has also proven challenging. Larson acknowledges the farm's reliance on technology, from milking cows to planting crops, and the need for tech-savvy individuals to handle various programs and Excel sheets.

The farm, like others in the industry, grapples with the limitations of seasonal guest worker programs like H-2A, which don't suit year-round milking schedules. As a result, the dairy industry faces operational challenges, leading to oversupply and impacting milk prices.

Leonard Polzin, a dairy markets and policy specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, reveals that processing plants are also struggling with labor shortages. Many processors are exploring automation and technology advancements to ease the labor burden. While investing in automation could streamline processes, uncertainty in global dairy demand and high-interest rates have hindered widespread adoption.

Despite the challenges, Wisconsin's dairy industry remains resilient, focusing on employee support, embracing technology, and strategizing for future growth.
 

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