The Colossal Financial Impact of Immigrants In Idaho

The Role of Immigrants in Idaho’s Workforce

Like many other agricultural communities, the economy thrives on the backbone of immigrant labor, as well as hospitality and construction, and well, we all know that the construction business isn't slowing down anytime soon in the Treasure Valley. Immigrant workers play a crucial role in driving some of the state's most significant industries, providing the workforce needed for practical yet labor-intensive jobs that many Americans avoid.

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Immigrants in Idaho's Dairy Industry

A major industry heavily reliant on immigrant labor is Idaho's dairy industry, which ranks third in the nation for milk and cheese production. 90% of dairy workers in Idaho are foreign-born and Spanish-speaking, with 78% originating from Mexico. Dairy work is year-round and demanding, making it something the domestic workforce is unwilling to take on. Producers in the Magic Valley, known for food production and processing, would face devastating labor shortages.

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Contributions to Agriculture and More

Across Idaho's agricultural sector, immigrants support harvesting, planting, and field maintenance that fuel the state's food supply. Immigrants fill essential roles in hospitality and construction, helping the labor demands in growing urban and rural areas.

Economic Impact of Immigrant Workers

From wages spent on local goods and services to their influence in reducing labor gaps, they also boost the state's economy. Look at these numbers: Unauthorized immigrants are 86% part of the workforce, contributing over $570 million a year in spending and $26 million in state taxes.

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Immigrant workers are a big part of Idaho's economy, especially those industries that require hard manual labor. Would you be willing to do what they do for the pay? Mhmmmm... probably not. So, now what? Also, did you know ICE has an Instagram account?