Is your farm celebrating its 100th birthday at the end of this year? Then give your family the gift of being recognized as a Missouri Century Farm.

If your farm has been in your family since Dec. 31, 1917, you can apply to have it documented as a Missouri Century Farm.

To qualify, farms must meet the following three guidelines:

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

Marshall Stewart, University of Missouri vice chancellor for Extension and Engagement, says that family farms have been among the most vital partners since the founding of Extension more than 100 years ago. "The century farm program is one way we express our gratitude to those who have contributed so much to Missouri agriculture," he adds.

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 President Blake Hurst says that his organization is a proud partner in the recognition of century farms. "We applaud the hardworking farm families that have kept us fed and clothed for generations," Hurst says. "They represent an important part of our heritage and have laid a foundation for the bounty Americans enjoy every day."

Applicants certified as owners of a 2017 Missouri Century Farm will be recognized by the MU Extension Center 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 8,000 century farms have been recognized.

For applications received by May 1, a $55 fee covers the cost of a certificate, farm sign and booklet for approved applicants. If the application is received between May 1 and May 15, the cost is $65. Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2017, to be considered.

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

Source: University of Missouri Extension