The Role of American Citizens in Agricultural Work: Insights and Statistics

When considering the involvement of American citizens in agricultural work, it is important to note that the statistics can vary widely based on the definition of 'agricultural work.' This article will discuss both direct farm employment and broader agricultural sectors, providing a comprehensive overview of the current workforce in agriculture in the United States.

Direct Employment on Farms

According to the USDA Economic Research Service, in 2022, there were approximately 2.6 million people employed in full- and part-time jobs directly on farms in the United States. This number represents 1.2 percent of total U.S. employment. This figure includes a wide range of roles such as farmers, ranchers, farmworkers, and other agricultural laborers.

It is crucial to recognize that these statistics only account for paid employment and do not include unpaid family members who often play a significant role in agricultural operations. The USDA Economic Research Service reports that unpaid family members significantly enhance the labor force on many farms, often contributing to the success of agricultural enterprises.

Broadening the Definition

A broader definition of agricultural work includes the entire agricultural and food sector, encompassing roles in food processing, transportation, retail, and related industries. According to the same source, in 2022, 22.1 million people were employed in full- and part-time jobs within this sector, representing 10.4 percent of total U.S. employment. This broader view also includes jobs in fields such as agricultural research, education, and government agencies.

Additional Resources

To gain a more detailed understanding of the agricultural workforce in the United States, the following resources are highly recommended:

USDA Economic Research Service Census of Agriculture American Farm Bureau Federation

Assessing the Makeup of the Agricultural Workforce

The assumption that most agricultural workers are American citizens is commonly held, especially given the vast number of family farms scattered across the nation. However, without exact figures, this remains a guess. Reports indicate that there is a significant workforce of both U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents, totaling approximately 25 million individuals, with another 50 million potentially involved in related sectors.

Indispensability of the Agricultural Workforce

A report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) highlights the indispensable nature of the agricultural workforce. In 2016, 21.4 million full- and part-time jobs were related to the agricultural and food sectors, representing 11.0 percent of total U.S. employment. Direct on-farm employment accounted for about 2.6 million of these jobs, or 1.4 percent of U.S. employment.

The report underscores the critical importance of the agricultural workforce, emphasizing that without these workers, the entire farm economy would face severe challenges. The labor provided by both citizens and residents is fundamental to the success and sustainability of the agricultural sector in the United States.

For further reading and data, refer to the resources mentioned above and continue to explore the various dimensions of agricultural employment in the United States.