The Ohio Department of Agriculture reported on Jan. 5 that it had recognized 114 new century or bicentennial farms owned by the same family for at least 100 or 200 consecutive years in 2015. To date, there are now more than 1,200 farms registered in the state’s Historic Family Farms program.
Putnam County, Auglaize County, and Mercer County were among the counties that had the most family farms added to the list in 2015. All of the farms date back to the late 19th century and early 20th century.
“I’m glad to help bring some well-deserved recognition to these families,” said Ohio Department of Agriculture Director David Daniels. “Their ancestors’ determination and tenacity are the foundation of our modern-day farms, and the families proudly continue their farming heritage. Together they have helped food and agriculture grow into the state’s top industry.”
Each of the families that made the list in 2015 were given a certificate signed by Governor John Kasich. The historical document can later be passed down through their families.
In the “America’s Diverse Family Farms” report released in December 2015, research indicated that family farms account for 99 percent of all farms in the U.S., as well as 90 percent of production. Most farms qualify as “small,” and these types make up nearly half of the farm population.