Governor Tim Walz officially presented Minnesota's official Thanksgiving turkey today at the State Capitol.
This year's official state turkey is named Gru and was raised by 4H student Shelby Barber.
"For our birds, average is about mid to high 40s," says Barber. "Sometimes we have gotten up to about 60 pounds, but average is around mid to high 40s."
Barber says Gru weighs over 45 pounds and that his time in limelight won't be lasting too long.
"After this, he will come home with us and be the main guest on our Thanksgiving table," Barber added.
"Well said. Well said," responded Gov. Walz.
The event looked to highlight the state which typically leads or is at least in the top two the country in overall turkey production.
Second Harvest Heartland CEO Sarah Moberg says despite Minnesota being a leader, hunger is still an uphill battle across the state.
"So, while SNAP benefits have been restored following the federal shutdown, the work is far from over," says Moberg. "Legislation passed this summer will significantly reduce benefits for many Minnesota families at a time when economic challenges are already making it harder to afford food."
The Minnesota Turkey Growers Association announced Tuesday they're donating $10,000 worth of turkey products to Second Harvest.