Carbondale Reporter

Four of the top six turkey-producing states in the United States are located in the Midwest, with Minnesota leading the way. Illinois, while not as large a player, still holds a significant role in the industry. The state is home to independent growers primarily around Peoria and Morton, along with a few USDA-inspected processing plants.

A major challenge for expanding Illinois' poultry industry is the lack of processing facilities. Building these plants is costly, and staffing them presents additional difficulties. Most turkey producers in Illinois operate under contracts with larger farms based in Iowa and Indiana.

Illinois produces approximately five million turkeys annually and hosts several notable farms. Yordy Turkey Farm in Morton prides itself on raising turkeys naturally without hormones or antibiotics. "Some of the highest quality turkey products in the nation are produced at Yordy Turkey Farm in Morton," said Rep. Bill Hauter (R-Morton). He praised their commitment to quality that can be tasted at the dinner table.

Windsweep Farm in Dixon has been family-operated by the Sheaffers for 70 years. Their turkeys are raised humanely without hormones or antibiotics, following vegetarian diets from homegrown feed. "Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy in Illinois," stated Rep. Bradley Fritts (R-Dixon), highlighting Windsweep's dedication to tradition and care.

Roth Turkey Farm, an independent family-owned operation since 1965, offers fresh turkeys during holidays from its Livingston County location. Mint Creek Farm near Cabery specializes in organic pasture-based livestock and provides grass-fed meats to Chicago markets and beyond.

Middle Creek Farms was founded recently in Clinton, offering a variety of poultry products available locally. Hollyhock Hill Farms focuses on free-range chickens and seasonal produce available directly from their Sterling farm or local markets.

The state experienced a loss last year when Kauffman Turkey Farms ceased operations after 90 years due to retirement decisions by its owners. Known as Ho-ka, it was one of the last independent family-run farms with its own processing plant.

Nationally, U.S. turkey production declined from 2017-2022 but saw an increase of four percent last year to 219 million heads overall.

This information comes from a state-sponsored site where campaign-related content is prohibited by ethics regulations.