摘要:Economies of size have impacted all areas of production agriculture. In New York State,the average herd size for dairy farms has grown drastically in recent years (New York StateAgricultural Statistics). To remain competitive, many farms have become twenty-four hourmilking operations that rely heavily on labor from outside the farm family. The prevalence ofthese non-family employees adds another dimension to farm management responsibilities.This research revolves around the need for benchmark information about 1) the marketvalue of dairy farm wages and benefits, 2) the satisfaction levels of full-time, non-owner farmemployees, and 3) the relationship compensation has with employee job satisfaction. Thisinformation is important for dairy employers who wish to become and remain competitive in atight labor market.