Mountain Plains Agricultural Service has been in business since February 1988. The founding of the association came about after passage of the IMMIGRATION REFORM AND CONTROL ACT (IRCA) of 1986, which prohibits the employment of “undocumented workers” in all types of employment. This law also provides agricultural employers with the H-2 process which allows for alien labor certification with the U.S. Department of Labor once a determination is made that there are not enough qualified U.S. Workers to fill positions in specific occupations.

Originally, the association was organized and incorporated under the name WYOMING / COLORADO AGRICULTURAL SERVICE. The association was chartered by a group of Wyoming and Colorado ranchers who not only recognized the importance of complying with the law, but also perceived the advantages of collectively applying for H-2A alien labor certification.

MPAS currently serves almost 300 members in 16 western states in the role of “agent”. It is important to remember that MPAS does not employ or recruit nonimmigrant labor, merely acts as agent to the employer.

MPAS is governed by an 11 member Board of Directors, elected from the membership for 2 year terms. The Board of Directors has entire control of the business affairs of MPAS.

The association currently employs the Executive Director and four staff members.