John Zimmerman, a second-generation corn, soybean, and turkey producer from Northfield, Minnesota, raises around 100,000 birds annually. As the 2024 chairman of the National Turkey Federation, he is delivering two turkeys from a special "presidential flock" on his farm to the White House for potential pardon by President Biden. In this week's episode of 15 Minutes With a Farmer, we explore why Minnesota is the top turkey-producing state, the role of producer groups, and the evolution of turkeys and farming technology.

Uncover the Turkeys and Tech in Minnesota's Farming Scene

John Zimmerman's Farming Journey

John Zimmerman's father started raising turkeys in the early 1950s. Zimmerman went to Iowa State University and worked for a poultry integrator in western Minnesota. After his father's death in 1999, he returned home to continue the family farming. He is now a second-generation turkey farmer, raising corn, soybeans, and turkeys.Turkey farming in Minnesota has a rich history. Zimmerman's father was inspired by innovators in the industry like Heisinga and Earl B. Olsen. They started on a small scale through FFA projects and grew the business. Minnesota's access to corn and soybeans, along with available labor, made it a popular place for turkey farming.

The Evolution of Turkeys and Farming Technology

The turkey itself has undergone significant genetic changes. Through genetic selection, turkeys are now larger and more efficient, weighing around 40 pounds at 17 weeks of age compared to 25 pounds in the 1950s and 1960s. Feed conversion has also improved, with only roughly two and a third pounds of feed needed to raise a pound of turkey now instead of over three to three and a half pounds 20 to 30 years ago.In addition to genetic improvements, farming technology has advanced. Zimmerman's barns are now climate-controlled and monitored through computers and his cell phone. They are experimenting with robotics to address labor shortages. This allows him to keep a close eye on his operations and be more efficient.

The Importance of Producer Groups

The turkey industry is a small one and often overlooked. Zimmerman emphasizes the importance of producer groups like the National Turkey Federation and the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association. These groups give farmers a voice and allow them to participate in decision-making.Minnesota has a large number of family farm or independent growers, which gives the state an advantage in the turkey industry. Zimmerman's family has been actively involved in these organizations, with his father and mother serving as chairmen. He believes it is important for growers to be present and active in these groups to ensure their industry's future.

Thanksgiving and the Turkey Industry

This year has been challenging for the turkey industry due to high-path avian influenza and poor markets. However, one of the perks of being the National Turkey Federation chairman is the opportunity to bring turkeys to the White House for the Thanksgiving presentation. Zimmerman's son and some neighbor kids have been raising a special "presidential flock" since July. Two of these birds will be taken to the White House, spend the night at the Willard Hotel, and participate in a National Thanksgiving Day pardoning celebration. Afterward, the birds will find a forever home at Farm America in Waseca, Minnesota.The National Turkey Federation is also promoting turkey in new ways. They are focusing on backyard grilling and smoking, trying to get more people to try different cuts of turkey. During Thanksgiving week, they engage with national barbecue societies and showcase different ways to prepare turkey.

Family Traditions and Thanksgiving

Zimmerman's family usually goes to his mother's for Thanksgiving and she cooks a traditional turkey. However, his favorite is probably smoked turkey roasts with boneless white and dark meat. The leftovers are great for making sandwiches and other dishes.Thanksgiving is a time for family and food, and the turkey industry plays an important role. Zimmerman is proud to be a part of it and wishes everyone a happy Thanksgiving.