LITTLE ROCK, AR – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has officially declared November 12-18 as Arkansas Turkey Week, recognizing the significant contribution of the turkey industry to the state’s economy and agriculture sector. At the proclamation event, Governor Sanders, joined by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, industry partners, and agricultural leaders, emphasized the importance of agriculture in Arkansas. She stated, “Agriculture is Arkansas’ biggest industry and we’re all working hard to help our poultry producers grow and thrive. Thank you to our great turkey producers for helping everyone take part in the Thanksgiving tradition.”
Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward highlighted the scale of the state’s turkey production, noting, “Arkansas produces 26 million turkeys per year, which provides over 550 million pounds of protein annually.” He expressed gratitude to the farmers who supply this vital protein throughout the year.
Marvin Childers, President of The Poultry Federation, also commented on the state’s status as the third-largest turkey producer in the U.S., saying, “Arkansas Turkey Week is an opportunity for us to celebrate the hardworking farmers who dedicate themselves to producing turkeys of the highest standards.”
The event included a symbolic pardoning of two live Chocolate Turkeys by Governor Sanders, with Jackson Barber and Kaden Ables of Austin, Arkansas, both members of the Cabot FFA Chapter and Hog Wild 4-H Club in Lonoke County, providing the turkeys.
For more information about the turkey industry’s economic impact in Arkansas, the public can visit thepoultryfederation.com/resources/facts-figures. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture continues to support the state’s farmers and ranchers, ensuring the safe production of food, fiber, and forest products.
