Iowa Turkey Producer Says Market Conditions Improving

A southeast Iowa livestock producer says economic conditions have been favorable for his turkey operation.

Tim Meyer says this follows what he calls a volatile 2024. “Turkeys are relatively healthy right now and that market seems to be better than it was six months to a year ago,” he said. “The turkey deal is definitely good right now. It’s better than it was.”

He contends that biosecurity protocols have picked up steam as some cases of avian influenza have popped up throughout the region this fall. “Biosecurity is going to be a big concern in the next 60 days here as we see the Canadian geese flock flying over. It’s just something to always keep top of mind. Know where you’ve been, where you’re stepping, and just use good sense when you’re walking in and out of the buildings all the time.”

EDITOR’S TAKE:

Another example of how the livestock side of agriculture is doing much better than crops in the current environment. This is particularly good news with the upcoming heavy holiday demand season just around the corner. That means we might expect turkey producers to be feeling good about their financial condition come year’s end. That also means they will be actively seeking a way to lower their tax burden. Be sure to remind farmers/ranchers that they can fully depreciate that new or used vehicle purchased for the farm in the year purchased. Plus, they can finance it with CADFI to make their payment match the income stream.