More than 30 local farms were honored as Century and Heritage Farms yesterday (Thursday), recognizing the families’ generational commitment to Iowa agriculture. These awards are presented through a partnership between the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS). The programs celebrate farms that have been owned by the same families for 100 years with the Century Farm designation and for 150 years with the Heritage Farm. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says, “The families that own and steward Century and Heritage Farms play a crucial role in maintaining Iowa’s rural tradition, contributing to our state’s identity, and sustaining our agricultural economy. Year after year and decade after decade, through hard-won successes and by overcoming obstacles, these innovative families embody remarkable strength, resilience, and grit. The opportunity to celebrate each family’s legacy, hear their inspiring stories and personally congratulate each family makes this unique event my favorite of the entire year.” Carroll County had eight recipients this year, Calhoun County had six, Sac County had five, Crawford County had eight, and Greene, Audubon, and Guthrie counties each had two. A list of the local honorees is included with this story on our website, and a link to the IDALS farm search tool can also be found there.
_______