National Farmworker Awareness Week (March 25–31) is a time for Minnesotans to recognize and honor the skilled, dedicated individuals whose labor sustains our agricultural sector and ensures that high‑quality food reaches our communities – and communities around the world. Farmworkers play an essential role in Minnesota’s economy, our food systems and our daily lives. This week is an opportunity for all Minnesotans to learn more, express gratitude and support the well‑being of farmworkers across the state. 

Agriculture: a cornerstone of Minnesota's economy

Agriculture is deeply rooted in Minnesota’s history and remains one of the state’s most powerful economic engines. From crop production to food processing, there are thousands of agricultural businesses in Minnesota, ranging in size from family farms to global corporations

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, agricultural production and processing in Minnesota generate over $106 billion in annual economic impact and support 388,134 jobs statewide. In 2023, Minnesota produced more than $24.5 billion in agricultural sales and ranked 5th in crops, 7th in total agricultural production, and 4th in agricultural exports, shipping $9.1 billion in goods to global markets. 

These figures reflect the strength and resilience of Minnesota’s agricultural sector – and the importance of the people who power it.

Minnesota’s farmworkers: the backbone of the food system

Farmworkers perform skilled, physically demanding labor that is essential to Minnesota’s agricultural success. These workers cultivate soil, plant and harvest crops, manage farm operations, support dairy and livestock production and more. 

In Minnesota:

• Roughly 10% of farmworkers are foreign‑born, providing critical support for specialized sectors such as dairy and crop production.
• The agricultural workforce is aging, with fewer workers under age 45, intensifying statewide labor shortages.
• Many workers face challenges such as limited access to housing and transportation, and increased anxiety due to federal immigration enforcement policies.
• Farm work remains among the most hazardous occupations, with high rates of injuries and fatalities related to equipment, chemicals and environmental conditions. 

Minnesota organizations – including CareerForce, the Minnesota Farmers Union, the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation, community service providers and nonprofits – continue working to support and advocate for farmworkers and their families. 

CareerForce services for farmworkers and agricultural employers

Minnesota’s CareerForce system offers comprehensive services to migrant and seasonal farmworkers (MSFWs), including job search assistance, training, career guidance, and referrals to essential community resources. These services help ensure that Minnesota remains a safe, supportive place for farmworkers to live and work. 

In addition, Minnesota participates in the Foreign Labor Certification (FLC) H‑2A visa program, which allows agricultural employers to hire temporary, seasonal workers when there are not enough U.S. workers available. Each year, H‑2A workers arrive in Minnesota to support planting, harvesting, livestock operations and other essential agricultural work across the state. The program benefits employers by providing a reliable workforce during peak seasons, while ensuring that workers receive required wages, safe housing and strong labor protections. Together, the H‑2A program and MSFW services strengthen Minnesota’s agricultural workforce and support continued productivity statewide.

Farmworkers are always essential

National Farmworker Awareness Week underscores the essential contributions of farmworkers to Minnesota and the nation. Across the U.S., more than 22 million people work in agriculture and food‑related industries, including 2.6 million farmworkers who provide the skilled labor that keeps our food supply moving. 

In Minnesota, their work sustains our position as a national agricultural leader in crops, livestock, food production and global exports. Their dedication, resilience and skill are an integral part of our shared prosperity.

How Minnesotans can participate in National Farmworker Awareness Week

During National Farmworker Awareness Week, Minnesotans are encouraged to:

• Learn more about the farmworkers who support our food system
• Support local farms, community organizations and advocacy groups
• Share appreciation in social posts using the hashtags
  #FarmworkerAwareness2026, #FarmworkerAppreciation, #Farmworkers, #ThankAFarmworker 
• Explore resources from Minnesota agencies and community partners to understand how to support farmworker well‑being
• Access the National Farmworker Awareness Week toolkit

Additional resources:

• Learn about Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Services in Minnesota 
• Read an overview of the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa Program