Missouri Century Farms

As a person who was raised on a farm in Missouri, I cannot begin to list the skills that were taught to me before I ever stepped into a classroom. Being a member of a farm that had been in my family for over 100 years gave me a sense of purpose and pride. My entire life I have utilized the knowledge and values that were instilled in me while on the farm.

Missouri honors those farms across that state who have been held within the same family for over 100 years and whose family has actively farmed during that time. If your farm has been in the family since Dec. 31, 1910 and that land makes a contribution to the overall farm income, you are eligible to be recognized as a Missouri Century Farm.

Missouri started this program in 1976. Since inception, over 7000 farms have been recognized throughout the state. The program is sponsored in cooperation between the Missouri Farm Bureau, University of Missouri Extension and the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

To qualify, 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 related through marriage or adoption. The farm must have at least 40 acres of the original land acquisition and make a financial contribution to the overall farm income.

Applicants who become certified as owners of a 2010 Missouri Century Farm will be recognized through receiving a certificate and a sign that can be proudly displayed on their farm. Applications can be obtained through the county extension center for free.

If these applications are submitted and received in Columbia by May 1, the fee to apply is $45. This fee increases to $55 for applications that are received between May 1 and May 17. Applications must be postmarked by May 17, 2010, to be considered for the 2010 year.

For application forms and information, call MU Extension Publications toll-free at 1-800 -292-0969, contact your local extension office at 573-888-4722 or visit the program Web site at http://extension.missouri.edu/centuryfar....

When you drive through the area be on the lookout for the signs that reveal one of the 7000 farms that have been recognized as a Missouri Century Farm.

University of Missouri Extension programs are open to all. The Dunklin County Extension Center is located in Kennett, Missouri at 101 South Main Street (the old bank) on the 2nd floor.

Sarah Denkler is a horticulture specialist

with University of Missouri Extension

in Dunklin County.