With the holidays approaching, many South Dakota families are beginning to plan meals featuring one of the season’s most recognizable foods: turkey. Although closely associated with Thanksgiving, turkey is a nutrient-dense protein that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
History of Turkey
Turkey has become closely associated with Thanksgiving, but the bird’s history in North America began centuries before the holiday tradition.
Research available through the National Library of Medicine indicates that modern commercial turkey lines descend from the South Mexican turkey, a subspecies indigenous to Mexico that was domesticated by approximately 800 B.C.
Archaeological evidence also points to a long history of turkey use and management among Indigenous peoples in what is now the American Southwest. Turkeys provided food, while their bones and feathers were used for tools, decoration and other purposes.
Turkey Production in South Dakota
Turkey production is concentrated in a relatively small number of states, with South Dakota playing an important role in the industry.
In 2025, North Carolina led the nation in turkey production by weight with approximately 1.1 billion pounds. Minnesota followed with 971.5 million pounds, and Indiana produced 826 million pounds.
South Dakota raised approximately 1.8 million turkeys and produced nearly 84 million pounds of turkey in 2025, with an average of approximately 46.6 pounds per bird.
Nutritional Benefits of Turkey
Turkey can provide several nutritional benefits when incorporated into a balanced, year-round diet.
According to the National Turkey Federation, a 3-ounce serving of roasted, skinless turkey provides approximately 25 grams of protein. Turkey also provides B vitamins and minerals such as selenium and zinc, which help support energy metabolism and normal immune function.
South Dakota’s Wild Turkeys
Turkeys also have an important place in South Dakota’s outdoor traditions. Wild turkeys are found across the state, including the Black Hills, wooded river corridors and prairie landscapes with suitable habitat.
Hunting opportunities are available to residents and nonresidents, though license availability, application requirements and season dates vary. Visit the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website for current regulations and application information.