Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is inviting farmers to apply for the Century and Heritage Farm Program, which honors families who have owned their land for 100 or 150 years, respectively. The application deadline is June 1, with an August 14 recognition ceremony at the Iowa State Fair. Naig says, “Century and Heritage Farm families embody the very best of our state, showcasing the strength and perseverance that define Iowa agriculture. The pride, stories, and legacies of these multi-generational farm families are truly inspiring. The Century and Heritage Farm ceremony at the Iowa State Fair is a celebration of Iowa agriculture, and I look forward to honoring these families every year. I encourage eligible families to submit their applications and join us at this great event.” The program is a joint effort between the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and has recognized more than 21,000 Century Farms since its 1976 inception and over 2,000 Heritage Farms since 2006. Applications are available on the IDALS website or by contacting Kelley Reece at 515-281-3645 or kelley.reece@iowaagriculture.gov. Applications must be submitted by June 1.
