The Farms Behind Thanksgiving: A Journey Across America

November 8, 2024

By Sara Preston, CommonGround Iowa

Thanksgiving is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of the hard work that goes into bringing food to our tables. As you sit down to your meal, consider how every bite tells a story of perseverance, care and a deep connection to the land and livestock. Behind every dish on your table is a farmer who wakes before dawn, braves unpredictable weather, and pours their heart and soul into their work — all so we can gather in gratitude with loved ones. 

While savoring the flavors and enjoying the company, it’s worth reflecting on the countless hands that contributed to your meal. Every ingredient on your plate is a testament to the commitment of the cultivators who nurture the land and animals that sustain us.

Turkey: A Thanksgiving Tradition

On our farm in Northern Iowa, raising livestock is second nature. It’s not just a job — it’s a way of life, and turkey farmers understand this better than most. Iowa ranks seventh in turkey production, raising around 12 million turkeys annually. Our neighbor to the north, Minnesota, leads the nation, yielding more than 40 million turkeys yearly. There are millions of reasons to be thankful for the farmers who put in long hours, often sacrificing their holiday traditions, to ensure enough turkey for every table in the U.S..
 
As a beef cattle farmer, I understand the level of dedication it takes to care for livestock. Like us, turkey farmers in North Carolina and Arkansas work through all seasons to provide the centerpiece of this special meal. It’s not just about Thanksgiving — it’s about a lifelong commitment to feeding families nationwide.

Idaho Potatoes: A Starchy Staple

No Thanksgiving feast would be complete without mashed potatoes; we have Idaho to thank for that. Idaho is famous for its potatoes, producing more than 30 varieties. While Iowa might not be top-of-mind when it comes to potatoes, we still have more than 400 potato farmers doing their part. These growers understand that the journey from soil to table is filled with long days, meticulous planning and a deep connection to the land.
 
Farmers in Washington and North Dakota also play critical roles in ensuring this beloved holiday dish is readily available. Whether you like them mashed, roasted or baked, the potatoes on your table symbolize the hard work and passion growers put into their crops all year.

Wisconsin Cranberries: A Wetlands Wonder

During my college years in Wisconsin, I was fascinated by the cranberry harvest, especially how farmers would flood their bogs to gather the fruit in the fall. Vibrant red cranberries floating in the bogs are one of the most stunning sights in agriculture. Wisconsin farmers grow over 60% of the nation’s cranberries, making it the top state for cranberry production. Every fall, they face the unique challenge of working in wetlands, but their perseverance guarantees that this tart fruit graces our Thanksgiving tables.
 
Massachusetts and New Jersey also contribute to the cranberry harvest. I love how a harvest tied to tradition and geography can connect us across states. Whether you're enjoying homemade cranberry sauce or a store-bought version, remember the diversity of American agriculture and the unique role each crop plays in our holiday meals.

Wisconsin Green Beans: A Green to Bring

Many families have green bean casserole at Thanksgiving. Knowing that Wisconsin leads the U.S. in green bean production makes serving this dish even more special. Last year, they harvested more than 51,900 acres of green beans. That’s a lot of snap beans, as they’re also called. These veggies represent the dedication of growers who work tirelessly to ensure their crops are healthy, abundant and ready for harvest.
 
Green bean farmers in New York and Michigan help demonstrate that Thanksgiving is a nationwide effort. Everyone contributes, whether they’re growing beans, raising turkeys or harvesting cranberries, and it’s a beautiful thing to know that we all play a part in feeding our country.

Illinois Pumpkins: A Filling Favorite

Pumpkin pie is a holiday favorite in our house, and it’s incredible to know that Illinois is responsible for producing over 41% of the nation’s pumpkins. Pumpkin farming may seem like a small part of agriculture, but it’s a year-round effort for many families. From preparing the soil to harvesting the pumpkins, these growers dedicate their time and energy so we can enjoy this delicious dessert every Thanksgiving.
 
While we’ve grown pumpkins for fun on our farm, the scale at which Illinois farmers operate is a humbling reminder of the hard work behind every pie. Indiana and California also contribute to the pumpkin harvest, ensuring there’s always enough to go around.

Iowa Corn and Soybeans: A Feast Foundation

Corn and soybeans are the backbone of our farm in Northern Iowa, and they quietly play an essential role in Thanksgiving meals. Cornmeal is a key ingredient in stuffing and soy-based oils are often used in cooking. These versatile crops are the basis for so much of what we eat.
 
Iowa leads the nation in corn production, while Illinois often takes the top spot for soybeans. Walking through our fields in late summer, I always feel a sense of pride knowing that what we grow helps feed families. These humble crops are at the heart of our farm and the meals that bring us all together.

Cultivators and Consumers: A Farmer’s Gratitude

Farming is more than a job — it’s a calling and a lifestyle that requires dedication and resilience. While many are resting on Thanksgiving Day, farmers across the U.S. are still hard at work, so there are no interruptions in the food supply. I offer my deepest gratitude to all the farm families who make this meal possible. Your hard work fuels this holiday and every meal we share throughout the year.
 
Thank you to the consumers who support us, whether picking up groceries at the store or reaching out to local farmers for fresh ingredients. Thank you for trusting us with the food you serve your families and for recognizing the care we put into raising our animals and tending the land. Your support means the world to us and helps ensure the future of farming in America.
 
I wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving and a joyful holiday season!