Beneath the Surface: Workforce Burnout and its Effects on the U.S. Agricultural and Natural Resources Industry

This quantitative research study explored the impact of burnout in the agricultural and natural resources industry across the United States. It also explored the relationships between individual burnout, mental health, wellness, and mattering among agricultural and natural resources workers. Through a web-based survey instrument, we collected data using a convenience sample. Following data collection and initial data cleaning, we had a response rate of 209 individuals working in agriculture and natural resources in the United States (N = 209). The findings show burnout is occurring in the agricultural and natural resources industry and that there is a positive relationship between anxiety, perceived wellness, and perceived stress and burnout. However, no relationship existed between mattering, workplace wellness, perceived workplace wellness, environmental support, and burnout. These findings indicate that the agricultural and natural resources industry faces challenges, which aligns with previous literature. Specifically, highlights agricultural education systems and animal systems as career fields facing a high degree of burnout, which should be addressed by industry leaders immediately. We propose recommendations for future practice and research to address this complex challenge while navigating the complexities of agriculture and the sensitivity of burnout, mental health, wellness, and mattering.