Family-owned farms urged to apply for Missouri 'century farms'

COLUMBIA — Families who have owned farms for 100 consecutive years are being encouraged to have them recognized as Missouri century farms.

The University of Missouri Extension says farms that have been in the same family since Dec. 31, 1910, can be recognized this year. Applications must be postmarked by May 17.

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. The farm must be at least 40 acres of the original land acquisition and contribute financially to the family.

More than 7,000 century farms have been recognized since Missouri launched the program in 1976.

Sponsors include the Extension, MU's College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources and the Missouri Farm Service Agency.