The interesting thing to me is that the farmers can’t find replacement workers even if they pay above minimum wage. What have we been told over and over again about “jobs Americans won’t do”? How about all those on welfare and not working? They should be mandated to take jobs like these in order to keep their benefits. Start rebuilding the work ethic. I’m sure the courts have already ruled that you can make work mandatory in order to receive welfare benefits.
Interesting, but true. There are many reasons, some of which I don't know either. But, what I do know is that parents don't encourage teenagers to work anymore. It is beneath them. The parents will buy them a car and put gas in it and provide them with anything else they want -- it is not a matter of need.
Another factor here in the south is the weather. It is oppressively hot and humid for 8 or 9 months a year. Personally, I enjoy being outside regardless of the weather, but I am unusual in that regard. There is just too much comfort in air conditioning these days.
Another reason is welfare and disability payments. Why work an honest day of labor when you can sit at home or on a stool in front of a slot machine at the truck stop? In our area, this is a BIG cause of labor shortages. Too Many folks willing to live a substandard life just so that they won't have to work.
We will pay people up to $12/hour cash money for farm labor, depending on what you know and what you can do. We never pay less than $8/hour. We will provide you with transportation to and from work at our expense and feed you a good lunch if you have no way to get fed on your own.
In NE Louisiana, these are good wages that will support a modest lifestyle, and a good lifestyle if there is more than one income.
There are few takers.