MANSON, Iowa — Two Iowa turkeys will live to see another day after being honored by Gov. Kim Reynolds at the annual turkey pardoning ceremony Monday.
Reynolds pardoned two turkeys from Manson: Freedom and Flourish. Both turkeys were raised by Ava, the daughter of Iowa Turkey Federation President Brad Moline. They will now move from The Moline Farm to a non-commercial farm in southwest Iowa.
“This wonderful tradition is a time to pause and be thankful for friends, family, and Iowa’s farmers. Iowa’s turkey producers’ dedication and hard work provide millions of families the ability to celebrate Thanksgiving with a healthy serving of Iowa poultry,” Reynolds said. “Today’s ceremony celebrates Iowa’s turkey producers, especially the Moline family, 5th generation turkey farmers, with an amazing legacy that will continue for generations to come.”
The event was held at Terrace Hill in Des Moines and was attended by Iowa Turkey Federation staff, Secretary Mike Naig and Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg.
Reynolds' office reports Iowa ranks sixth in U.S. turkey production, producing more than 12 million turkeys a year.