Don’t Miss the Deadline for Century and Heritage Farm Recognition in 2025

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig encouraged eligible Iowa farm owners to apply for Century or Heritage Farm recognition as part of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s (IDALS) program. 

The program was created by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) and IDALS to honor families who have owned their farms for 100 years and 150 years, respectively.

To be recognized in 2025, completed applications must be sent or received by IDALS by June 1, 2025. The ceremonies honoring 2025 Century and Heritage Farm families will be August 14, 2025,  at the Iowa State Fair’s Livestock Pavilion. To apply, download and complete the application found on the IDALS website. Mail should be addressed to:

• Century and Heritage Farm Program
• Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
• Wallace State Office Building
• 502 E. Ninth St.
• Des Moines, IA 50319

To request an application, contact Century and Heritage Farm Program coordinator Kelley Reece at [email protected] or 515-281-3645.

“Century and Heritage Farm families embody the very best of our state, showcasing the strength and perseverance that define Iowa agriculture,” Naig said. “The Century and Heritage Farm ceremony at the Iowa State Fair is a celebration of Iowa agriculture, and I look forward to honoring these families every year.”

This is the 49th year of the Century Farm Program, which started in 1976 as part of the nationwide Bicentennial Celebration. More than 21,000 farms from across the state have been named Century Farms. The Heritage Farm Program began in 2006, and more than 2,000 farms have been honored since it began.

“Agriculture drives our great state, and it’s an honor to partner with IDALS to recognize the multi-generational farm families leading that progress,” said IFBF President Brent Johnson. “Century and Heritage Farm families have deep roots in Iowa and these awards are a great way to honor their stories of dedication, innovation and perseverance.”