A severe outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is devastating turkey farms in South Dakota, exacerbating existing challenges faced by the agricultural sector. The crisis unfolds against a backdrop of Turkey’s surging peanut exports and political tensions within the country.
Avian Flu Ravages South Dakota Turkey Population
On April 8, 2025, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed another case of HPAI at a commercial turkey facility in Beadle County, South Dakota. This recent outbreak has already affected 36,000 turkeys. Since early 2022, Beadle County alone has recorded sixteen HPAI cases, impacting a staggering 825,000 birds.
South Dakota is now ranked as the second-highest state in the U.S. for HPAI cases since the global outbreak began on February 8, 2022. The state has seen 115 commercial flocks affected, resulting in the loss of over 6.1 million birds, according to WATTPoultry.com.
The ongoing outbreaks raise concerns about the economic impact on local farmers and the potential disruption to the turkey meat supply chain. Quarantine and containment measures are being implemented to control the spread of the virus.
Turkey’s Peanut Exports Surge Amidst Internal Strife
In contrast to the challenges faced by American poultry farmers, Turkey’s agricultural sector is experiencing growth in other areas. In the first quarter of 2025, Turkey’s peanut exports reached $59.7 million. Key importing countries include Italy, Germany, and Kazakhstan. (Source: The Global Window of Turkish Food and Agriculture)
However, this economic success occurs amidst rising political tensions within Turkey. Opposition leader Ozgur Ozel’s recent re-election as CHP party chairman has intensified the pressure on President Erdogan, with calls for early elections gaining momentum. (Source: Al Jazeera)
Conclusion
The avian flu crisis in South Dakota poses a significant threat to the local turkey industry, while Turkey navigates a complex landscape of export growth and internal political challenges. The situation highlights the interconnectedness of global agricultural markets and the importance of biosecurity measures in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.