ID

AEE-106NP (ALCE-186NP)

Authors as Published

Kim Niewolny, Associate Professor; Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, Virginia Tech; Allyssa Mark, Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Program Associate, Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, Virginia Tech; Kim Morgan, Associate Professor, Agricultural and Applied Economics, Virginia Tech; Peter Callan, Extension Agent, Farm Business Management, Culpeper County; Kelli Scott, Extension Agent, Montgomery County; Theresa Nartea, Assistant Professor, Virginia State University; and Jim Hilleary, Extension Agent, Loudoun County.

This publication is available in PDF format only.

There are many factors to consider before you start a new farm enterprise. Labor issues are often underemphasized in the decision-making processes of beginning farmers. It is important to consider who you will hire, where you will find help, how you will manage your employees, and what legal matters are relevant to your farm.

The purpose of this resource is to introduce you to these important labor issues as you begin planning our expanding your farm enterprise. The topics covered in this source are not all-inclusive and, after reading this tool, you should explore the topics applicable to you. This will help you make the best labor decisions for your farm. If you have any questions about labor issues or other farm start-up topics, bring them to your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office, or visit the Virginia Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coalition Program website at: www.vabeginningfarmer.org.

Virginia Cooperative Extension materials are available for public use, reprint, or citation without further permission, provided the use includes credit to the author and to Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tech, and Virginia State University.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Publication Date

March 18, 2020