U.S. Turkey Production Declines 3% in 2025

The decline in production marks the second consecutive year of contraction in the U.S. turkey industry.

WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) annual report, Turkeys Raised, shows U.S. turkey production slipping to 195 million head in 2025, down three percent year-over-year (yy). The decline marks the second-straight year of contraction in the nation’s turkey industry.

The top six producing states accounted for 68 percent of total domestic turkey production:

  1. Minnesota led with 32 million turkeys, unchanged yy
  2. North Carolina increased its output by four percent to 28 million
  3. Arkansas dropped by 12 percent to 22 million
  4. Indiana held steady at 20 million
  5. Missouri slipped three percent to 15 million
  6. Virginia eased two percent to 15 million

Other notable changes included Ohio down six percent to 6 million, Pennsylvania off three percent to 7.5 million, and South Dakota sharply lower at 2.4 million (that is, 86 percent of last year’s total). By contrast, West Virginia and Michigan showed slight gains.

The nationwide total reflects both regional declines and strong performance in North Carolina, but overall numbers remain below recent peaks, continuing pressure on processors and growers.

Related Stories
Cotton jassid, a invasive pest, is raising concerns for Southeast cotton growers as experts work to understand its impact this season.
RFD Farm Legal & Tax expert Roger McEowen shares guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, its impact on renewable energy and agriculture, and what producers should know moving forward.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
Ranger Road Fire has burned 283,000 acres across Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle and is nearing containment, as ranchers begin assessing cattle and infrastructure losses as they look toward recovery.
Domestic beef demand remains solid, with the strongest growth occurring through retail channels, according to consumers surveyed in the latest K-State Meat Demand Monitor.
Stronger fuel demand supports corn usage despite a steady production pace.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farm bill negotiations remain unsettled, leaving producers waiting for updated federal support programs.
Domestic textile demand plays a shrinking role in supporting U.S. cotton prices.
Strong cattle markets are masking ongoing financial stress across crop agriculture.
Record ethanol demand continues supporting corn markets and rural economies.
Geopolitical risk is rapidly increasing fertilizer price volatility before planting.
China may no longer serve as a consistent anchor market for U.S. cotton exports. Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the factors influencing planting decisions, river conditions, and what producers are considering as they finalize acreage plans for the season.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.