State recognition given to farms more than 100 years old

When traveling across the state of Missouri, drivers may notice a sign on rural property that designates a tract of farmland as a "Missouri Century Farm." The distinction is granted to landowners whose property has been within the same family for more than 100 years.

According to the Missouri Extension Service, the organization that recognizes the family-owned farms, the line of ownership from the original settler or buyer may be through children, grandchildren, siblings and nephews or nieces, including through marriage or adoption.

Other restrictions call for the property to consist of at least 40 acres of the original land acquisition and make a financial contribution to the overall farm income.

Recognizing the endurance of the family farms began in 1976 and the program was initially referred to as The Centennial Farm Project. In 1986, it was renamed the Missouri Century Farm Club and it was then that the organization began to seek out applicants to be recognized.

About 100 farms are recognized each year through the University of Missouri Extension.

This year, Missouri Farm Bureau became a Century Farm Club co-sponsor.

Families who think their farm may qualify for recognition through the University of Missouri Extension may contact Andy Emerson at the university at 573-882-7216 for more information.