Minnesota Turkey Farmers

Who We Are

The Rothfork and Westbrock families are a multi-generational family farm. Jes Westbrock (above) currently serves as the MTGA President.

Minnesota is home to the largest number of independent turkey farmers in the nation. Many of our farm families span generations. Raising turkeys is not just a business - it's a way of life. By adhering to NTF Standards of Conduct, every turkey farmer ensures their birds are healthy and well cared for.

In 1939, Minnesota's turkey farmers formed the first commodity group in the state to protect this way of life and to advance the industry through best management practices for turkey health and welfare.

Today, turkey farmers and the industry are represented by two organizations - the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association and the Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council. Each organization is independent of each other with their own mission in advancing Minnesota turkey.

Minnesota Turkey Growers Association

The Minnesota Turkey Growers Association (MTGA) was formed in 1939 and has a long and rich history of representing the state’s turkey farmers. Voting members include those who are actively engaged in the growing, breeding, hatching, or processing of turkeys in Minnesota.

Who We Are:
  • Turkey farmers
  • Turkey hatcheries
  • Turkey breeders
  • Turkey stakeholders

What We Do:
  • Workforce Development
  • Member Education
  • Government Affairs
  • Public Relations

MTGA Mission Statement:

Minnesota Turkey Growers Association enhances the success of the Minnesota turkey industry through member engagement, strong advocacy with legislators and public outreach.

Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council

Our flocks have access to fresh, clean water 24 hours of the day. The research conducted by the MTRPC has led to the best in turkey health and nutrition.  

The Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council is responsible for managing the funds collected through the voluntary checkoff turkey farmers contribute to advance the industry. The Council was formed in 1965 through the creation of the Minnesota Commodities Promotion Act by the state legislature.

Who We Are:
  • Turkey farmers
  • Turkey hatcheries
  • Turkey breeders

What We Do:
  • Finance Research
  • Workforce Development
  • Public Outreach/Education

MTRPC Mission Statement:

Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council discovers and shares healthy practices for its members and consumers by advancing strong research and public education.

Our History

Turkey farming has a rich history in Minnesota and through our two organizations, MTGA and MTRPC, we work on behalf of Minnesota's turkey farmers.

Our Farmers

Our turkey farmers take great care in raising the highest quality turkey to put on your table. NTF Standards of Conduct guide our farmers as they ensure each and every bird is will cared for. Learn more about the people who feed you and the world.

Turkey Facts

Turkey is a lean, protein-packed meal your entire family will enjoy. Learn how your locally-grown turkey is raised by our farmers and choose turkey for your daily nutrients.

Our Staff

Ashley Kohls
Executive Director
763-682-2171
akohls@minnesotaturkey.com
Jodi Ronnie
Business Director
763-682-2171
jronnie@minnesotaturkey.com
Brandon Severns
Outreach and Member Services Coordinator
763-682-2171
bseverns@minnesotaturkey.com
Peter Scharpe
Program Director
763-682-2171
pscharpe@minnesotaturkey.com

MTGA

Minnesota Turkey Growers Association enhances the success of the Minnesota turkey industry through member engagement, strong advocacy with legislators and public outreach.

MTRPC

Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council discovers and shares healthy practices for its members and consumers by advancing strong research and public education.

Classifieds

Gain access to talent in the turkey industry by posting your job opportunity with us. You can also post farm equipment you have for sale where others in the industry will see it. While it’s encouraged, you don’t have to be an MTGA member to post an advertisement. If you are interested in posting an ad, contact us today.

Members can post a classified ad directly through the Member portal. Non-members are encouraged to contact us to post an advertisement.

Job Postings
Equipment For Sale
Classifieds