Search for Missouri Century Farms continues

Owners of farms that have been has been in the current owner's family since Dec. 31, 1911, can apply to have the property recognized as a Missouri Century Farm.

To qualify, farms must meet the following guidelines: The same family must have owned the farm for 100 consecutive years. The line of ownership from the original settler or buyer may be through children, grandchildren, siblings, and nephews or nieces, including those through marriage or adoption. The farm must be at least 40 acres of the original land acquisition and make a financial contribution to the overall farm income.

"It is important to honor and respect our history," said Michael Ouart, vice provost for University of Missouri Extension. "These farms represent both Missouri's cultural heritage and the good stewardship that our farmers strive for." In 2008, the Missouri Farm Bureau joined MU Extension and the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources as a program sponsor.

"Missouri Farm Bureau is a proud partner in the recognition of century farms," said Blake Hurst, president. "We applaud the hard-working farm families that have kept us fed and clothed for generations. They represent an important part of our heritage and laid a foundation for the bounty Americans enjoy every day." Applicants certified as owners of a 2011 Missouri Century Farm will be recognized by the local MU Extension office in the county where the farm is located. Applicants are presented with a sign and a certificate.

Since Missouri began the program in 1976, more than 7,500 Century Farms have been recognized.

For applications received by May 1, a $50 fee covers the cost of a certificate, farm sign and booklet for approved applicants. If the application is received between May 1 and May 16, the cost is $60. Applications must be postmarked by May 16, 2011, to be considered.

For application forms and information, call Extension Publications toll-free at 1-800-292-0969, contact your local MU Extension office, or visit the program website at http://extension.missouri.edu/centuryfarm.

In addition to being recognized locally, there is a new opportunity for Missouri Century Farm owners. This year's applicants and existing Century Farm owners may have their farms featured in a 35th-anniversary commemorative book honoring Missouri's historic farms. It's free to have your Century Farm featured in the book, which will include regional histories; a special feature on how agriculture has changed through the years, including technology, crops and equipment; and the 35-year history of the Missouri Century Farm program. For more information about including a farm in the book and buying a copy, visit the Missouri Century Farm Web site at http://extension.missouri.edu/centuryfarm or call Acclaim Press toll-free at (877) 427-2665.