Governor Polis and First Gentleman Marlon Reis Pardon Maple, Pumpkin, Matilda, and Gus, Four Colorado Turkeys, Celebrate Colorado Farmers, Ranchers and Producers

DENVER - Today, Governor Polis, joined by First Gentleman Reis, pardoned Maple, Pumpkin, Matilda, and Gus, the first four turkeys to receive an official Governor’s pardon in Colorado history. Colorado’s Turkey Pardon is a unique way to support local Colorado farmers and ranchers and highlights opportunities for Coloradans to shop locally to celebrate the holiday season. The Governor and First Gentleman were joined by Lieutenant Governor Primavera, Colorado Department of Agriculture Commissioner Kate Greenberg, representatives of Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary, the owners of Hayden Fresh Farm, family members of active duty military, and 4-H families. 

“I am thrilled to kick off the holiday season with Colorado’s inaugural Turkey Pardon and celebrate Colorado’s farmers and ranchers! This beloved tradition is a symbolic way to support the poultry industry, and by launching the Colorado Turkey Pardon, we are reminding people to shop Colorado Proud this holiday season,” said Governor Polis. “Shopping locally in Colorado supports small businesses, boosts our economy, and is better for the environment.”  

Pardoning turkeys is a symbolic way to uplift the responsible producers of Colorado poultry, which has weathered a difficult year due to the avian flu’s impact across the country. 

“I am so happy to be celebrating Colorado’s inaugural Turkey Pardon and to join the Governor in uplifting Colorado’s farmers and ranchers.  Ours is a State of compassionate people, and with this pardon, Maple, Pumpkin, Matilda, and Gus will go on to live many more joy-filled Thanksgivings at Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary,” said First Gentleman Marlon Reis. “I am thankful for Hayden Fresh Farm and I am thankful for Luvin’ Arms, where Maple and Gus will live life to the fullest.” 

This holiday season, Governor Polis encourages Coloradans to support the Colorado poultry industry and local farmers and ranchers whenever possible. From poultry and eggs to farm-fresh vegetables and artisan bread, shopping Colorado Proud can stock your holiday table, no matter your family’s traditions. 

The Colorado Department of Agriculture’s (CDA) seasonal maps of farmers’ markets, farm stands, and other places to find Colorado-grown produce, meats, and other products can help Coloradans shop locally this year.  

The turkeys, Maple, Pumpkin, Matilda, and Gus, were raised at Hayden Fresh Farm in Hayden, Colorado, and are the first turkeys to receive an official pardon in Colorado history. Hayden Fresh Farm is a Routt County producer that has been feeding Colorado families for years. Hayden Fresh Farm, founded and operated by Colby and Michelle Townsend, is one of Colorado’s many responsible poultry producers. Colby Townsend is the co-chair of the Community Agriculture Alliance, an organization serving Routt County and the Yampa River Valley and working to ensure the agricultural community can adapt to changes in the local and regional economy while remaining active and vital for generations to come.  

Following their pardon, Maple, Pumpkin, Matilda, and Gus will be going to Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary in Erie, Colorado to live peacefully. 

Gus, estimated 50 lbs

Maple,  Estimated: 25lbs

Pumpkin, Estimated: 25lbs

Matilda, Estimated: 25lbs 

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