DeKalb Times

Five of the top poultry production states in the U.S. are in the Midwest, with Minnesota leading the way. However, Illinois also plays a significant role in the turkey industry, despite having a smaller footprint. Poultry is a lucrative business, contributing nearly $600 billion to the U.S. economy annually, accounting for three percent of the nation's Gross Domestic Product.

In Illinois, there is a concentration of independent growers in the Peoria and Morton areas, along with a couple of USDA-inspected processing plants. However, the lack of processing plants poses a challenge in expanding the poultry industry in the state. Building a plant is expensive, and finding enough willing employees is another obstacle. As a result, most Illinois turkey producers are contract growers for large, integrated farms in Iowa and Indiana.

Illinois is home to several turkey farms that prioritize natural and sustainable practices. Yordy Turkey Farm in Morton is known for producing turkeys through a 100 percent natural lifecycle. The turkeys are raised in an open, climate-controlled environment and fed all-natural corn and grain. Importantly, they receive zero hormones, antibiotics, or artificial growth enhancers. Every turkey produced at Yordy Turkey Farm is USDA state inspected and certified. Representative Bill Hauter (R-Morton) praises the farm, stating, "Some of the highest quality turkey products in the nation are produced at Yordy Turkey Farm in Morton. The owners and employees at Yordy do it right, and you can taste the difference at the dinner table."

Kauffman Turkey Farms, located in Waterman, has been a family-owned and operated turkey farm for over 80 years. It is one of the last remaining independent farms in the country with its own dressing plant. Kauffman focuses on raising turkeys with an emphasis on quality, allowing them to grow more slowly and develop a richer flavor and denser texture. Representative Bradley Fritts (R-Dixon) recognizes the importance of such small businesses, stating, "Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy in Illinois, and our turkey producer families embody the values of hard work and tradition. They care about the process and raise their animals the right way."

Roth Turkey Farm, located in the village of Forrest in Livingston County, is another independent, family-owned and operated turkey farm. They offer fresh turkeys to retail customers during the holiday season. The farm has a long history, tracing back to 1965 when Les and Ruth Roth purchased the property and started raising poultry. Over the years, they have expanded and remodeled their facilities to accommodate the growing demand for their turkeys.

The United States leads the world in turkey production and is also the largest exporter of turkey products. In 2020, the country produced 224 million turkeys, equivalent to 7.3 billion pounds. Turkey consumption has nearly doubled since 1970, with ground turkey gaining popularity as a nutrient-rich, lower-fat substitute for ground beef. Among the top turkey-producing states, Minnesota takes the lead, producing 40 million turkeys per year. It is followed by North Carolina (31 million), Arkansas (30 million), Indiana (20 million), and Missouri (16.5 million). Illinois contributes approximately five million turkeys annually to the nation's production.

The turkey industry, particularly in the Midwest, plays a vital role in the agricultural sector and the overall economy. Illinois may have a smaller presence compared to some of its neighboring states, but it is home to dedicated and passionate turkey producers who prioritize quality, sustainability, and traditional farming practices.

To learn more, click on this link: https://repkeicher.com/2023/11/15/turkey-producers-an-important-part-of-midwest-agriculture/