Commissioner Sid Miller Expands Family Land Heritage Recognition Ahead of America250 (6/2/2026)

Austin – As America prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today announced a special expansion of the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Family Land Heritage Program to recognize qualifying 50- and 75-year family farms and ranches in 2026, alongside the program’s traditional century-old honorees.

“For over half a century, the Texas Department of Agriculture has been proud to honor the heritage and spirit of our Texas family farms and ranches.” Commissioner Miller said. “Their faith, self-reliance, and grit helped shape our nation and continues to inspire us all today.”

Since 1974, the Family Land Heritage Program has recognized more than 5,000 Texas farms and ranches that have remained in continuous agricultural operation by the same family for 100 years or more. In honor of America250, TDA will expand eligibility during the 2026 recognition year to include farms and ranches with 50 and 75 years of continuous agricultural operation, honoring a broader range of Texas families whose dedication reflects the enduring spirit of American independence.

Applicants must trace and substantiate continuous family ownership and agricultural operation through deeds, affidavits, or other historical documentation. Honorees receive a certificate from Commissioner Miller and are recognized during an annual ceremony.

To accommodate new applicants, TDA has extended the application deadline by one month. Eligible families seeking recognition must submit applications by June 30, 2026.

“America’s independence was not secured only on battlefields,” Commissioner Miller said. “It was built and sustained by generations of farmers and ranchers who worked the land, fed their communities, and passed down both property and values from one generation to the next. As our nation marks 250 years of independence, those families deserve to be honored as part of America’s story.”

Families interested in applying or learning more about the Family Land Heritage Program may apply online or download a printable application at the TDA Family Land Heritage webpage.

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