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Search for Missouri Century Farms continues COLUMBIA, Mo. – If your farm has been in your family since Dec. 31, 1909, you can apply to have it recognized as a Missouri Century Farm. To qualify, far

Search for Missouri Century Farms continues

COLUMBIA, Mo. – If your farm has been in your family since Dec. 31, 1909, you
can apply to have it 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 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 proud to partner in the recognition of these unique
and historical family farms,” said Charles Kruse, president of Missouri Farm
Bureau. “They represent the continued importance of production agriculture to
our state and nation.”

Applicants certified as owners of a 2009 Missouri Century Farm will be
recognized by their 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 7,000 century farms have
been recognized.

For applications received by May 1, a $40 fee covers the cost of
certificates, farm signs and booklets for approved applicants. If the
application is received between May 1 and May 15, the cost is $50. Applications
must be postmarked by May 15, 2009, to be considered.

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