Arkansas Department of Agriculture to Recognize 102 "Century Farms"
102 century old farms in Arkansas are being recognized as historical locations by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture recently announced 102 family-owned farms in the state of Arkansas will be recognized as “Century Farms” during the week of November 18-22. This is according to a recent news story from WTHV.
2013 marks the second year of the Century Farms program, which recognizes Arkansas' rich agricultural heritage by honoring families who have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years. Last year, 83 Arkansas families became the first group recognized by the program.
Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe said about the program at last year’s launch, "The Arkansas Century Farm Program is designed to acknowledge the families who have contributed to our state's traditions, but also to remind all of us that work is needed to ensure that those traditions continue for future generations."
After meeting a number of qualifications, eligible farms may submit an application to be recognized. Once approved, successful applicants are added to the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program, while also earning a special certificate and metal sign to be displayed at the farm identifying their land as a historical location.
Family owned farms are often times passed down through generations, often times staying in operation for hundreds of years. To recognize these families’ commitments to farming, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture will be officially adding 102 farms across the state to its Century of Farms program.