The Century Farms Program recognizes and honors those individuals who have owned farmland for 100 years or more. The program began in 1976 as part of the Bicentennial Celebration, when over 5,000 certificates and farm markers were distributed across Iowa at local ceremonies. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship in conjunction with the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation later established the Heritage Farm Program for farm families that have owned at least 40 acres for 150 years or more.

To be eligible, there must be consecutive ownership within the same family for 100 years or more of at least 40 acres of the original holding of Iowa farmland (or 150 years for Heritage Farms). The present owner must be related to a person who owned the land 100 (or 150) years ago. The applicant must complete the required application either by hand, or by typing in the information online and then printing it. In either case, the application must have an original notarized signature. The application must be postmarked before June 1 of the year applying.

The Century and Heritage Farms Ceremony is held annually during the Iowa State Fair. For full details on the program and application, visit iowaagriculture.gov/century-and-heritage-farm-program. For further information or to ask questions, contact Kelley Reece at 515-281-3645 or by e-mail: kelley.reece@iowaagriculture.gov.