Since the height of the covid pandemic in 2020, A&J's Tree Nursery has been a revolving door for employees. The owner, Adam Gorniak, is struggling to find local workers.

"To get reliable workers is the biggest headache in this industry," said Gorniak.

Between planting, trimming, maintaining, and harvesting, Christmas tree farming is a year-round job.

Thanks to the Labor Department's H-2a program, Gorniak will bring in 5 migrant workers to Erie. This agricultural program will help Gorniak combat the lack of domestic workers.

The program requires that A&J's provides the workers with housing and transportation throughout the duration of their employment. 

According to Gorniak, the extra hands will benefit A&J's tremendously.

"It's crucial for the business to have those reliable workers. Just trying to find those laborers to fill in the gap, that's where the hassle is."

The workers will start with A&J's in Erie this spring and work a 10-month term. They will then be sent home for two months before being eligible to return.