Century Farm application deadline June 1, 2005

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Patty Judge recently encouraged Iowa families to participate in Iowa's Century Farm Program sponsored by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Farm Bureau. The Century Farms Program was initiated during the (1976) Bicentennial to honor farm families who have owned their farmstead for 100 years or more. To date, the program, which annually awards certificates from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, has awarded over 15,000 certificates since 1976.
The 2005 Century Farms Program ceremony will be held on Tuesday, August 16, during the Iowa State Fair.
"As we celebrate the Iowa State Fair, it is fitting for us to remember the tremendous contribution made to the way of life Iowa's farm families helped forge. The Century Farms Program acknowledges these farm families by honoring century-long ownership and stewardship of Iowa farmland, and recognizes the sense of responsibility that comes from working the land. The program honors a 'way of life' which has enriched our communities, our state and our country. It provides a unique understanding of Iowa's past while giving insight on how agriculture will continue to play a major role in our state's exciting and productive future," Secretary Judge stated.
Farm families that may qualify for the Century Farms Program must submit an application no later than June 1, 2005. The application may be obtained online at: www.agriculture.state.ia.us/century.htm or by contacting Janet Lee, Coordinator of the Century Farm Program. Janet's phone number is 515-281-5323, e-mail: Janet.Lee@ idals.state.ia.us, or write: Janet Lee, Century Farms Program, The Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship (IDALS), Henry A. Wallace Building, 502 E. 9th Street, Des Moines, IA. 50319.