By Andi Anderson
Embarking on a journey that spans generations, the Heritage Farm Program, a collaboration between the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, pays homage to families who have maintained ownership and operation of a farm for an impressive 150 years or more.
Heritage Farm Application: To be part of this prestigious program, farm families with a minimum of 40 acres of original Iowa Farmland can submit their applications. Ownership within the same family must be consecutive for 150 years or more by the end of the applying year. The present owner must be related to the individual who owned the land a century and a half ago.
Awards:
- Each legal farm owner will receive a Heritage Farm Certificate from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
- An exclusive Heritage Farm marker, suitable for display on the farm, will be provided by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. Additional markers are available for purchase.
- The certificates and markers will be presented at a special ceremony during the Iowa State Fair in August.
How to Apply: To begin the journey of recognition, interested families can find the Heritage Farm Application and detailed directions on the official program website.
Celebrating Heritage: The Heritage Farm Program not only acknowledges the remarkable achievement of sustaining a family farm for 150 years but also reinforces the deep-rooted connection between Iowa's agricultural history and its dedicated farming families.
As you explore the application process, consider becoming a part of Iowa's rich farming legacy and celebrating your family's enduring commitment to the land. Join the ranks of Heritage Farms, preserving the essence of Iowa's agricultural heritage for generations to come.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sizsus
Categories: Iowa, Education, Rural Lifestyle