Casey Kuhn/KJZZ

USDA surveys say about half of farmworkers in America are unauthorized.

The Department of Homeland Security issued orders Tuesday setting into motion President Donald Trump’s plans to more heavily enforce immigration law and deport undocumented immigrants. Those sweeping measures will directly impact the agriculture workforce, especially in Arizona.

As of now most ag organizations are staying mum on the yet-to-be-seen effect the crackdown on immigration will have on their business.

The policy instructs Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to swiftly deport undocumented immigrants, giving priority to those convicted of a crime.

Groups like Western Growers Association are warning members to prepare for more ICE raids at farm worksites.

Arizona Farm Bureau CEO Joe Sigg says what ag needs is more visa reform, not more deportations.

“There are lots of ideas as to how we create a pathway so that those that are without appropriate documents, who are working, leading good lives, can continue to do that and take care of their families,” Sigg said.

Sigg says while arduous, visa reform would create a channel for undocumented workers to gain legal status.

“Simply rounding people up, while legal, does not necessarily fix the problem. And it’s not going to fix it because we need labor," he said. "We are going to need labor into the future. We’re going to need new sources of labor.”

U.S. Department of Agriculture says about half of farm workers are unauthorized to work in America.