Iowa Century and Heritage Farm Programs

The Century Farms Program recognizes and honors those individuals who have owned the farm land for 100 years or more. The program began in 1976 as part of the Bicentennial Celebration, when over 5,000 certificates and farm markers were distributed across Iowa at local ceremonies.

The Heritage Farm Program recognizes farm families that have owned at least 40 acres for 150 years or more.

Century Farm Program Eligibility

• Consecutive ownership within the same family for 100 years or more of at least 40 acres of the original holding of Iowa farmland.

• Present owner must be related to a person who owned the land 100 years ago.

Heritage Farm Program Eligibility

• Must have at least 40 acres of the original holding of Iowa Farmland

• Consecutive ownership within the same family for 150 years or more by the end of year applying

• Present owner must be related to a person who owned the land 150 years ago

Certificates and markers will be presented at a ceremony at the Iowa State Fair in August.

Complete the appropriate application below, and then mail a notarized copy to

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Attn: Heritage/Century Farms Program

Wallace State Office Building

502 E. 9th Street

Des Moines, IA 50319

• Searchable Database of All Century and Heritage Farms

• Application Directions