Iowa farm families with deep roots are invited to be part of a special America250 celebration this year.
Mike Naig is encouraging eligible landowners to apply for Century or Heritage Farm recognition through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
The program, created in partnership with the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, honors families who have owned their farms for 100 years as Century Farms and 150 years as Heritage Farms.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Century Farm Program and the 20th anniversary of the Heritage Farm Program. Since the programs began, more than 21,000 Century Farms and 2,000 Heritage Farms across Iowa have been recognized.
Families honored in 2026 will receive a certificate featuring a special America250 seal and will be recognized during a ceremony August 20th in the Livestock Pavilion at the Iowa State Fair.
To qualify for 2026 recognition, completed applications must be postmarked or received by June 1st. Applications are available on the Department’s website or by contacting the Century and Heritage Farm Program coordinator at the Department’s office in Des Moines.