WHEREAS, turkey production remains a vital component of the Commonwealth’s economy, generating more than $241 million in cash receipts in 2024, ranking as Virginia’s sixth-leading agricultural commodity and placing the Commonwealth sixth nationally in turkey production; and

WHEREAS, more than 15 million turkeys are produced annually across 433 farms in Virginia, led by Rockingham, Augusta, and Page counties, and supporting nearly 19,000 jobs throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, in 2025, Virginia turkey exports were valued at $19.1 million, with Mexico, Canada, and the Dominican Republic as the top destinations; and

WHEREAS, Virginia turkey farmers remain at the forefront of industry innovation and economic development, creating jobs and investing more than $100 million in Rockingham County with support from the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development Fund and other state agencies; and

WHEREAS, turkey is a nutritious source of lean protein, with a three-ounce serving of skinless turkey breast containing approximately 25 grams of protein, about 125 calories, and essential vitamins and minerals, and is enjoyed by Americans year-round as part of a healthy, balanced diet and as a longstanding holiday tradition in the United States; and

WHEREAS, purchasing a Virginia-grown turkey supports local farmers, strengthens local economies, and advances Virginia agriculture, the Commonwealth’s largest private industry;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize June 2026 as VIRGINIA TURKEY LOVERS MONTH in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.