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John Zimmerman’s is a second-generation farmer, industry leader, and outspoken advocate for Minnesota’s turkey industry. MTGA leaders agree, John embodies the values and vision that the Ranelius Award was created to recognize.
John owns and operates P&J Products in Northfield, Minnesota, where he raises turkeys and grows corn and soybeans. While on the farm, John is deeply invested in operational excellence, but it is his leadership beyond the farm that has truly set him apart.
Over the last two decades, John has committed himself to the broader advancement of Minnesota’s turkey sector. He has served as President of the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association (MTGA), Chair of the Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council (MTRPC), and as a board leader for numerous cooperatives and ag organizations. In each of those roles, he brought a farmer’s pragmatism, a strategist’s foresight, and a servant-leader’s humility.
In 2024, John was elected Chairman of the National Turkey Federation (NTF), becoming a respected voice for not only Minnesota’s turkey industry, but the industry nationwide. His leadership came at a critical time. As highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) threatened turkey operations and markets, John brought on farm perspective and experience to urgent policy discussions in Washington D.C.
Specifically, John advocated for the expedited approval of critical aMPV vaccines. His multiple Congressional testimonies during his tenure on the NTF board gave voice to the challenges Minnesota producers were facing on the ground—and the urgency with which support was needed.
While his policy advocacy is noteworthy, John’s most widely recognized contribution in recent years may be the 2024 National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation. John and his son, Grant, raised the “presidential flock,” a once-in-a-lifetime honor for any turkey producer. Their birds, Peach and Blossom, traveled from the Zimmerman farm to the White House where they were officially pardoned by President Biden. John’s calm presence, storytelling ability, and passion for agriculture came through in every media appearance, helping Americans across the country connect with the people behind their Thanksgiving meals. In a year marked by industry challenges, John helped turn the national spotlight toward something hopeful—reminding consumers of the dedication and care that go into raising every turkey.
A graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Animal Science, John also participated in the Minnesota Agricultural Rural Leadership (MARL) Program, where he developed his skills in ag advocacy, policy engagement, and organizational leadership. But perhaps his greatest leadership strength lies in his consistency. John shows up—not just for the big moments, but for the everyday work of building relationships, listening to fellow growers, and mentoring the next generation.
Within the MTGA community, John is known for being both approachable and action-oriented. Whether in board rooms or in the barn, he leads by example. He understands that the success of Minnesota’s turkey industry is built on collaboration, shared learning, and a willingness to adapt. His deep respect for his colleagues shows in how he speaks about the future of the industry.
John’s wife, Kara, and their son, Grant, are active partners on the farm. The family’s commitment to agriculture reflects not just a business, but a lifestyle of stewardship and service. Whether through local involvement or national leadership, the Zimmermans represent the kind of values that continue to move Minnesota agriculture forward.
As the recipient of the 2025 Ranelius Award, John Zimmerman joins an impressive legacy of individuals who have shaped the trajectory of the turkey industry in Minnesota. This award is not simply a recognition of past accomplishments—it is a celebration of character, contribution, and community impact. In every sense, John has lived out the mission that the Ranelius Award represents.
John’s career reflects the very best of Minnesota agriculture: smart stewardship, strong leadership, and sincere belief in the value of producing safe, nutritious food. He continues to be a trusted voice at the table, a steady hand in times of change, and a mentor to those rising behind him. We are proud to honor John Zimmerman with the 2025 MTGA Ranelius Award.
