Transitions in Agriculture and Farmworker Well-Being

Utilizing data collected through ethnographic research, this paper examines the ways in which transitions in climate, markets, gender and migration have shaped hops production and farmworker well-being in Southwestern Idaho in... [ view full abstract ]

Utilizing data collected through ethnographic research, this paper examines the ways in which transitions in climate, markets, gender and migration have shaped hops production and farmworker well-being in Southwestern Idaho in recent years. We find that changing market and climatic conditions have contributed to a sharp increase in the amount of hops produced in the region. This, combined with a decrease in the migration of farmworkers, and an increase in ‘settling in,’ has influenced the labor opportunities and conditions for many farmworkers in the region. In addition, a feminization of agricultural labor is evident in the region broadly, and in hops production in particular. The feminization of agricultural labor is influencing the well-being of women working in hops production, as well as those whom they care for. Our analysis suggests significant barriers to well-being for farmworkers adjusting to the rapid changes in the region. In particular we have observed challenges with food provisioning, food security, and child care among women farmworkers, in particular.