Dear Editor,

Iowa is home to roughly 130 turkey farms and ranks seventh in the nation for turkey production. Raising 12 million turkeys every year, this important industry to Iowa’s economy supports 38,000 jobs, contributes over $50 million in wages, and generates more than $10.6 billion in economic activity.

This year is an especially important year for the turkey industry as Congress prepares to reauthorize the Farm Bill. Fortunately, Iowa’s turkey farmers have a strong voice in Congressman Randy Feenstra – who represents Hamilton County in Congress – to echo our priorities on both the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Agriculture Committee.

Understanding the importance of a strong Farm Bill to Iowa turkey farmers and our rural communities, Congressman Feenstra has assembled an Agriculture Advisory Board – which I am proud to serve on – to ensure that every turkey farmer has a seat at the table. This is truly the essence of representative government.

From foreign animal disease mitigation to international trade, I appreciate Congressman Feenstra’s work on behalf of Iowa turkey farmers to protect our livelihoods and help Iowa remain a top producer of the world’s finest turkey. He is an exceptional advocate for Iowa turkey production.

Sincerely,

Ben Slinger

Ellsworth