BAKERSFIELD -- Farmers across the country are facing a growing shortage of people in their fields.

Agriculture is a $31 billion dollar a year industry in California with Kern County making up 11% of that amount.

Historically there have always been enough farm laborers to bring in the crops, but for the first time ever California farmer's and labor contractors are facing a growing labor shortage.

Frank Herrera, a labor contractor, says during the peak month of August he noticed a labor shortage.

Herrera said if he didn't have a lighter season this year the shortage would have been worse.

Competition from the construction and hospitality industries are behind the declining numbers, along with increasing immigration enforcement.

The Kern County Farm Bureau would like to see a comprehensive migration package to prevent a further impact on farm labor in California.