Growing On Podcast

Presented by Georgia Farm Bureau

"Growing On" is a show produced by the Georgia Farm Bureau to discuss agriculture related issues and topics to help promote and advocate for Georgia agriculture as well as educate consumers about the production of food and traditional farming practices. 

Listen to the Latest Episode

Episode 43: Farmers vs. Labor Challenges: Explaining the H2A Program

The fruits and vegetables on your grocery store shelves don’t just appear there by magic. Behind every ripe peach, crisp pepper, and juicy blueberry, there’s a story—one of labor, regulation, and a growing struggle for survival.

In this episode of the Growing On Podcast, we sit down with Chris Butts, Executive Vice President of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, to dive deep into one of the most pressing issues in American agriculture: the H-2A guest worker program.

What was once a lifeline for farmers has become a growing burden, with skyrocketing costs, complex regulations, and wage rates that have risen 34% in just three years. How are Georgia’s farmers coping with these challenges? And what does it mean for the future of American-grown produce?

Join us as we break down the real cost of getting food from the farm to your table—and why the future of agriculture in the U.S. is at a tipping point.

🎧 Tune in now to hear the full conversation!