NWPB news is working to keep a finger on the pulse of our rural communities.

Right now, we know some immigration policies are causing concern for farmers and farm workers.

Many have told us the fear is widespread for farm workers, regardless of a person's immigration status.

And farmers share a lot of similar concerns.

Here's Ben Tindall, the executive director of Save Family Farming.

“So it's driving a lot of employees to not want to come to work, which is then putting stress on the operation.

Farm operations are already surviving on the brink in our state right now.” He said thats a red flag for farmers.

For more northwest immigration coverage, from resource networks to health, go to NWPB.org.

Ste.

Michelle Wine Estates are cutting contracts again.

It's one of the biggest wine producers in the United States.

It's already sold off some well-known local brands or facilities like Col Solare, 14 Hands and Columbia Crest.

Right now, Ste.

Michelle won't say how much of their grape growing contracts are being pulled.

But some companies involved in the cuts say it is significant.

It's a sign of a changing Washington wine industry, with the state's wine commission already predicting nearly $1 million less coming in next year compared to this year.

an innovative idea to help with child care for labor workers at any hour of the day or night.

The idea has taken shape in Tacoma thanks to the Pierce County Central Labor Council.

An empty elementary school could be the place, but funding is still up in the air for now.

Still, it is an exciting prospect for people like single mom Amber.

“I have one child.

Yeah.

She's nine.

Oh, Well, I currently still live with my parents so they can get her up and get her to school and, bring her home from school.

If I didn't have my daughter, I would live on my own.

But because I do, I live with them.” The Labor Council estimated that in a 24-hour period, the 24-hour childcare facility could serve more than 200 children.

If you missed any of these stories online or on the air, NWPB has you covered.

The news team has a new newsletter sent out every Thursday.

It has a list of the week's headlines.

You'll get a note from the newsroom, getting to know the journalists, the editors and myself, and we're hoping you write back.

Your pictures could be featured.

We'd love to see what you're seeing out your window.

Sign up for the newsletter at and NWPB.org.

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