Farmworker vs. robot

Automation is the solution to labor shortages, the rising cost of food, and more according to Professor of Agribusiness Timothy Richards.

Machines have joined humans on a farm to pick fruits and vegetables, filling in for the shrinking labor force. Soon, machines may replace agricultural employees altogether. That's because fewer workers mean there aren't enough people to harvest crops before they spoil. This increases the cost of produce, as do rising wages and benefits to attract and retain laborers.

In an article Feb. 17, 2019, in The Washington Post:

Automation is the long-term solution, given the reluctance of domestic workers to do these jobs.

– Professor of Agribusines Timothy Richards, who is the Morrison Chair of Agribusiness