ST. PAUL, Minn. – A plump white turkey named Harold, as handsome as they come, was presented to Governor Tim Walz by the state turkey growers association. Harold didn’t fully realize the significance of the Capitol ceremony, but the fact is that he has friends in high places. The governor ordered that Harold will be spared becoming the centerpiece on a holiday dinner table in the governor’s mansion. Harold will live out his days naturally on a hobby farm southwest of St. Cloud near Paynesville.
Happy days ahead. No roasting for this fella.
Minnesota turkey industry profile
> Turkey farms in the state: 600.
> State’s annual turkey production: 40 million.
> Minnesota share of U.S. market: 18%. No other state produces more.
> Locally owned farm-to-table producers in state: Jennie-O in Willmar; Turkey Valley in Marshall; Northern Pride in Thief River Falls.
> Economic input of Minnesota turkey industry: $1 billion a year.
> Number of Minnesota turkey jobs: 26,000.