Commissioner Miller Seeks Applicants for Program to Honor 100-Year-Old Farms and Ranches (4/22/2015)

AUSTIN - Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is proud to invite family farmers and ranchers to apply for the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) Family Land Heritage (FLH) program, which pays tribute to families who have kept their land in continuous agricultural production for at least 100 years. As TDA continues this proud tradition of honoring true Lone Star pioneers, Texas families are asked to submit their applications for recognition in the 2015 FLH registry by Friday, May 15.

“Family farms and ranches are key to our agricultural heritage in Texas and instrumental to our future success,” Commissioner Miller said. “The Family Land Heritage program gives us the opportunity to recognize Texas families for their enduring commitment, perseverance and hard work, all of which has helped make our state’s agriculture industry the $115 billion powerhouse that it is today.”

Eligible farms and ranches must be owned and operated by the descendants of the founder, either through blood, marriage or adoption. At least 10 acres of the land must have been in continuous agricultural production for the past 100 years or more.

This fall, Commissioner Miller will honor farms and ranches established in 1915 or earlier at the FLH ceremony at the Texas Capitol.

“As a longtime rancher myself, I am proud to pay tribute to the men and women who nurture our land, and I encourage future generations to keep the legacy going,” Commissioner Miller said.

To date, TDA has recognized more than 4,800 farms and ranches, including 211 for 150 years of operation. Seven ranches have been honored for 200 years of operation. There is no cost to apply.

To apply for FLH recognition, visit www.TexasAgriculture.gov and click on the Family Land Heritage icon, or download the application here.