The California Farm Bureau has reported a significant downturn in the citrus harvest within the Central Valley, attributed to the absence of migrant farmworkers amid fears of deportation. This situation arises in the wake of President-elect Donald Trump's announcements regarding mass deportations. The apprehension among the agricultural workforce has been exacerbated following recent immigration enforcement actions targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records.
Norm Groot, the Executive Director of the Monterey County Farm Bureau, expressed concerns regarding the unfolding situation and its potential ramifications on the agricultural sector, particularly with the Salinas Valley's harvest season on the horizon. The bureau anticipates that the mere threat of deportation could deter a substantial portion of the 55,000 migrant workers essential for the valley's harvest operations.
The absence of these workers, as Groot highlighted, could result in unharvested crops, leading to potential losses and subsequent increases in food prices. In response to these developments, the farm bureau, in collaboration with Monterey County leaders, has committed to supporting the affected workers and their families. Additionally, the Mexican consul general has indicated that consulates are mandated to ensure the basic rights of undocumented immigrants are not infringed upon, reflecting a broader concern for the welfare of these individuals amidst the evolving immigration policy landscape.
Source: NBC