Ag officials search for Missouri century farms

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Agriculture officials want to recognize more Missouri farms that have been in the same family for at least 100 years.

More than 8,000 century farms have been honored since Missouri began the program in 1976 as part of the nation's bicentennial celebration.

The University of Missouri Extension says farms that have been in the same family since Dec. 31, 1913, can receive the distinction. Applications must be postmarked by May 15.

To qualify, the line of ownership from the original settler or buyer may be through children, grandchildren, siblings, or nephews or nieces, through marriage or adoption.

Farms must be at least 40 acres of the original land acquisition and contribute financially to overall farm income.

Sponsors include the Extension, the university's College of Agriculture and the Missouri Farm Bureau.